The Israeli Prime Minister’s scathing remarks about Australia’s leader came as the world reacted to a deadly antisemitic shooting at a Jewish holiday event in Sydney.
Netanyahu’s Accusation
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu lashed out at Australia’s leader on Sunday, saying he had warned Prime Minister Anthony Albanese that “your call for a Palestinian state pours fuel on the antisemitic fire.”
During the war in Gaza, Netanyahu has repeatedly tried to link widespread calls for a Palestinian state and criticism of Israel’s military offensive to a rise in antisemitism worldwide.
Other members of Israel’s government also urged Australia to do more against a sharp rise in antisemitic attacks, but Netanyahu went further by attempting to connect the Sydney shooting that killed at least 11 people, including an Israeli, to support for a Palestinian state.
Context of Palestinian State Recognition
Australia was among several countries that formally recognized a Palestinian state in September during the United Nations gathering of world leaders.
According to the Palestinian Foreign Ministry, 159 countries have recognized Palestine.
The vast majority of the international community believes that a two‑state solution is the only way to end decades of conflict.
Netanyahu’s government has said the international push for a Palestinian state rewards Hamas.
Global Reactions
Iran
Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said that “terrorism and the killing of people, wherever they occur, are unacceptable and must be condemned.”
Australia in August cut off diplomatic relations with Iran and accused it of masterminding antisemitic arson attacks in Sydney and Melbourne.
United States
President Donald Trump called the shooting “a purely antisemitic attack,” and Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that “antisemitism has no place in this world.”
Britain
King Charles III said he was “appalled and saddened.” He also leads the Commonwealth, and the office of Israeli President Isaac Herzog on Sunday said Herzog had reached out to the king in September warning of an “epidemic of antisemitism” in three Commonwealth countries: Britain, Canada and Australia.
Meanwhile, police in London said they would step up security at Jewish sites.
Germany
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said the attack “has left me speechless” and added that “this is an attack on our shared values. We must stop this antisemitism, here in Germany and worldwide.”
United Nations
Secretary‑General Antonio Guterres said he was horrified and that “My heart is with the Jewish community worldwide on this first day of Hannukah, a festival celebrating the miracle of peace and light vanquishing darkness.”
India
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the “ghastly terrorist attack” and said that “we stand in solidarity with the people of Australia in this hour of grief.”
World Jewish Congress
The organization’s president, Ronald Lauder, said that “No community should ever fear coming together to celebrate its faith, traditions, or identity,” adding: “Make no mistake, this will not break us.”
Local Australian Response
“I’m surrounded by antisemitic graffiti constantly. I think for our community in the east (of Sydney), and as a Christian, I just want to declare I stand with the people of Israel,” Anglican pastor Matt Graham told Australian Broadcasting Corp. He said he had been conducting a service at the nearby Bondi Anglican Church when panicked people began entering to take shelter.
Key Takeaways
- Netanyahu linked Australia’s antisemitic shooting to calls for a Palestinian state, sparking international debate.
- The shooting, which killed at least 11 people, including an Israeli, occurred during a Jewish holiday event in Sydney.
- Global leaders from Iran, the United States, Britain, Germany, the United Nations, India, and the World Jewish Congress condemned the attack and called for action against antisemitism.
The incident has intensified discussions about the relationship between geopolitical disputes and rising antisemitic incidents worldwide, as well as the responsibilities of nations to protect vulnerable communities.
Morgan J. Carter is a Texas-based journalist covering breaking news, local government, public safety, and community developments across Austin. With more than six years of reporting experience, Morgan focuses on delivering accurate, clear, and timely stories that reflect the fast-moving pulse of the city.
At newsofaustin.com, Morgan reports on everything from severe weather alerts and traffic updates to city council decisions, crime reports, and the issues shaping daily life in Austin. Known for reliable fact-checking and a strong commitment to public-interest journalism, Morgan brings readers the information they need to stay informed and engaged.
When not tracking a developing story, Morgan enjoys exploring Austin’s neighborhoods, attending local events, and connecting with residents to share the voices and experiences that define the community.
