Australia has sharply criticized Israeli leader Benjamin Netanyahu after he called Prime Minister Anthony Albanese a 'weak politician who betrayed Israel.' The dispute erupted following Australia's announcement that it will recognize Palestinian statehood next month, joining similar moves by France, Canada, and the United Kingdom. In response, Netanyahu escalated his rhetoric, prompting Australian officials to defend their stance and question Israel's approach to strength and diplomacy.

The diplomatic rift has deepened rapidly, with Australia canceling the visa of a far-right Israeli politician and Israel retaliating by revoking visas for Australian diplomats to the Palestinian Authority. This exchange of actions and words marks a significant shift in the historically close relationship between the two countries, which has been strained further by ongoing conflict in Gaza and concerns over humanitarian conditions.

Australian ministers have emphasized that true strength is not measured by military might or inflicting suffering, but by responsible leadership. As Israel faces growing international isolation over its actions in Gaza, the fallout from Australia's decision continues to reverberate, highlighting shifting global attitudes toward the conflict.