Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu launched a direct attack on Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, describing him as a “weak politician who betrayed Israel and abandoned Australia’s Jews.” The remarks, posted on social media, came as Israel and Australia entered a heated diplomatic confrontation over Canberra’s cancellation of the visa of far-right Israeli lawmaker Simcha Rothman. The move prompted Israel’s foreign minister Gideon Sa’ar to revoke visas of Australian representatives to the Palestinian Authority, as relations between the two countries worsened in the wake of Australia’s recognition of Palestine at the United Nations.

Escalating Diplomatic Measures

Australia’s Department of Home Affairs cancelled Rothman’s visa citing “unacceptable risk” that his planned speaking tour in Sydney and Melbourne could inflame tensions. In response, Sa’ar accused the Albanese government of “fueling antisemitism” and warned of further retaliatory steps. He also said Israel’s measures were necessary after Australia’s decision earlier this month to support Palestinian statehood at the UN. Australia’s foreign minister Penny Wong condemned Israel’s actions as “unjustified” and harmful to international peace efforts.

Community Reactions And Trade Concerns

The Executive Council of Australian Jewry urged both governments to show restraint, warning that escalating the dispute threatened $2bn in trade and security ties. The Australia/Israel & Jewish Affairs Council criticized Canberra’s visa decision as a “disturbing precedent,” while the Zionist Federation of Australia said Rothman’s views did not reflect mainstream Israeli opinion but opposed denying entry to an elected official. Progressive Jewish groups supported the ban, citing Rothman’s previous statements against Palestinians and refugees. Meanwhile, Rothman pledged to continue his speaking tour virtually.