Netanyahu Calls Albanese Weak Politician Amid Israel-Australia Diplomatic Row

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has strongly criticized Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, branding him a 'weak politician who betrayed Israel and abandoned Australia's Jews' following Australia's cancellation of the visa of Israeli MP Simcha Rothman. Rothman, known for his far-right views and leadership of the Knesset’s Constitution, Law and Justice Committee, was barred from entering Australia over concerns about his inflammatory rhetoric. This diplomatic dispute escalated after Australia recognized a Palestinian state at the United Nations, prompting Israeli foreign minister Gideon Sa’ar to retaliate by revoking visas for Australian representatives to the Palestinian Authority. Australian Jewish groups have called for calm amid rising tensions, warning of real-life consequences and urging diplomatic resolution. Albanese defended his government’s stance as a necessary step to break the cycle of violence and promote a two-state solution recognizing both Israeli security and Palestinian political aspirations. The dispute marks a significant low point in Australia-Israel relations since the establishment of Israel 77 years ago.