Netanyahu blasts Australian PM Anthony Albanese: "A weak politician who betrayed Israel"

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has launched a scathing attack on Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, accusing him of betraying Israel and abandoning Australia’s Jewish community. In a post on X, Netanyahu wrote, “History will remember Albanese for what he is: a weak politician who betrayed Israel and abandoned Australia’s Jews.” The rebuke follows Australia’s announcement on August 11, 2025, that it will recognize a Palestinian state at the United Nations General Assembly in September, joining France, the United Kingdom, and Canada in a coordinated push for a two-state solution.

Albanese defended the decision, citing frustration with Israel’s military actions in Gaza, including plans to occupy Gaza City, and accused Netanyahu of being “in denial” about the humanitarian crisis, where over 61,000 people, mostly civilians, have died since October 2023, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. He emphasized that Australia’s recognition is conditional on Palestinian Authority commitments to exclude Hamas from governance, demilitarize Gaza, and hold elections. However, Israel’s ambassador to Australia, Amir Maimon, called the move symbolic and argued it rewards Hamas, undermining peace efforts.

The decision has sparked domestic controversy in Australia. The Executive Council of Australian Jewry labeled it a “betrayal” of Israeli hostages still held by Hamas, while opposition leader Sussan Ley vowed to reverse the recognition if elected, claiming it disrespects the United States, a key ally. Conversely, Palestinian advocates like Nasser Mashni argued it falls short without sanctions on Israel. Public sentiment in Australia has shifted, with tens of thousands marching in Sydney in August 2025 to demand aid for Gaza.

Netanyahu’s criticism reflects Israel’s broader rejection of Palestinian statehood recognition as “shameful,” with the prime minister insisting such moves reward terrorism.

Albanese has done less than nothing to protect Australia's Jews from horrific acts of antisemitism, including burning synagogues and shocking violent attacks. Time and again, he has chosen sides, and it's never Israel or the Jews he is sworn to protect.