EU, Australia, Lebanon Criticize Netanyahu Government for Isolating Israel Amid Gaza Conflict

Tensions between Israel and several international actors have escalated amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza, with criticism mounting against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's leadership. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen openly declared that Israel would be "better off" without Netanyahu, signaling growing European frustration over Israel's policies and the human cost of the war. Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam echoed this sentiment, stating that Israel is moving "from one state of isolation to another" due to its actions in the West Bank and Gaza. Australia has also joined the chorus of criticism, with Foreign Minister Penny Wong condemning Israel for cancelling visas of Australian diplomats in retaliation for Australia's ban on an Israeli far-right MP, calling the Israeli government's actions "unjustified" and accusing Netanyahu of isolating Israel and undermining peace efforts. Despite these diplomatic strains, Australia affirmed its commitment to pursuing a two-state solution, a ceasefire in Gaza, and the release of hostages. These developments highlight a broader international concern about Israel's current trajectory under Netanyahu and its implications for regional peace and diplomacy.