Netanyahu condemns Macron for igniting an 'antisemitic flare-up'
In a series of recent events, tensions between Israel and several UN member countries have escalated, with the recognition of a Palestinian state at the centre of the dispute.
The latest nation to announce its intention to formally recognize a Palestinian state is France, as announced during a UN meeting in September. This move comes after Australia, Britain, and Canada have already recognized or plan to recognize a Palestinian state. At least 145 of the 193 UN members now support or plan to support statehood for the Palestinians, marking a growing trend in international relations.
The diplomatic spat between Israel and Australia began after the Australian government cancelled the visa of far-right Israeli politician Simcha Rothman, a member of an ultranationalist party in Netanyahu's governing coalition. Rothman was scheduled to speak at events organized by the Australian Jewish Association. Israel's Foreign Minister, Gideon Saar, responded by revoking the visas of Australia's representatives to the Palestinian Authority.
Israel's Prime Minister, Netanyahu, accused French President Macron's call for a Palestinian state of pouring fuel on the antisemitic fire in France. In a letter to Macron, Netanyahu stated that antisemitism had "surged" in France following the announcement. He went on to label Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese a "weak politician who betrayed Israel and abandoned Australia's Jews" in a post on his office's official Twitter account.
In response to Israel's revoking of visas, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong described the move as an "unjustified reaction." Wong further stated that Netanyahu's government is isolating Israel and undermining international efforts towards peace and a two-state solution.
The ongoing diplomatic spat between Israel and Australia has also seen Netanyahu calling on Macron to confront antisemitism in France and to do so by a clear date: the Jewish New Year, September 23. Israel issued a swift rebuke to France's announcement, with the details of the ongoing dispute yet to be fully resolved.
The announcement by France sets it among a growing list of nations that have recognized statehood for the Palestinians since the start of the Gaza war nearly two years ago. The recognition of a Palestinian state by these nations is seen as a significant step towards resolving the long-standing conflict, albeit one that continues to spark controversy and diplomatic tensions.
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