Australia’s Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke has fired back at Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, accusing him of conflating strength with killing people. The exchange comes amid escalating diplomatic tensions between the two countries over Israel’s war in Gaza.
Netanyahu had recently branded Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese “weak” on social media, claiming he would be remembered as a politician who betrayed Israel and abandoned its Jewish community. Burke responded by saying that Netanyahu’s strength is not measured by how many people he can kill or leave hungry.
Instead, Burke praised Albanese for his willingness to have direct conversations with Netanyahu and addressing concerns in person before making public announcements. The exchange highlights the growing tensions between Australia and Israel over their differing stances on recognizing a Palestinian state.
The situation has become increasingly acrimonious since Canberra announced last week that it would recognize a Palestinian state, citing international pressure on Israel’s treatment of Palestinians during its war in Gaza.
Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/8/20/australia-hits-back-at-netanyahu-amid-escalating-diplomatic-row-over-gaza