Australia's New Labor Government Shows Hostility Towards Israel

Australia's Labor government, which came to power last May, has initiated a diplomatic row with Israel by reversing the previous Liberal/National government's decision to recognize West Jerusalem as Israel's capital. 

After language regarding Australia's recognition of West Jerusalem had disappeared from its Foreign Ministry webpage, a spokesperson for Foreign Minister Penny Wong denied there had been any change in policy. But hours later, the policy had indeed been changed. Shadow Foreign Minister Simon Birmingham called upon Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to apologize to Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid for how it was handled and not consulting with him beforehand. Lapid has expressed outrage at Australia's decision and the Israeli government has summoned the Australian Ambassador for an explanation. Jewish groups in Australia were also blindsided by the move after being given assurances to the contrary. Then again this news perhaps shouldn't be so surprising as Albanese considers Israel "an oppressor" and thus unworthy of any consultation while viewing Australian Jews with contempt. 

While Albanese and Wong deny any hostile intent towards Israel the dishonest and backhanded way this was done certainly cannot be considered a friendly act.