Israel has launched a series of diplomatic attacks on several Western allies as they prepare to recognize a Palestinian state next month. The move comes amid escalating tensions between Israel and its Western partners.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sent strongly worded letters to French President Emmanuel Macron and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, accusing them of fueling antisemitism with their decision to recognize Palestine. Netanyahu cited recent antisemitic incidents and linked them to the governments’ positions on the Gaza war and Palestinian statehood.
France has defended its position, stating that it will “protect and always protect” its Jewish citizens. Australia’s Prime Minister Albanese has also faced criticism from Netanyahu, who called him a “weak politician.”
The tensions are part of a growing divide between Israel and its Western allies, with many criticizing Israel’s war in Gaza, which has caused widespread destruction and humanitarian crises. Several Western nations, including France and Australia, plan to recognize Palestine next month, joining over 140 countries already doing so.
Netanyahu has set a deadline for Macron and Albanese to take action against antisemitism, warning that inaction will be seen as “cancer” that must be eradicated. The move is part of Israel’s efforts to block the recognition of Palestine by Western allies.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/08/20/middleeast/israel-diplomatic-attacks-palestinian-statehood-intl