Comments posted on social media by Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja M. Asif have drawn strong criticism from Jewish organisations and the Israeli government, while also prompting renewed debate over diplomatic consistency in responses to inflammatory political statements.
In a post on X, the Asif used highly inflammatory language to condemn Israel and alleged ongoing violence in Gaza, Iran and Lebanon, alongside remarks directed at the state of Israel that have been widely condemned by critics.
“Israel is evil and a curse for humanity, while peace talks are underway in Islamabad, genocide is being committed in Lebanon. Innocent citizens are being killed by Israel, first Gaza, then Iran and now Lebanon, bloodletting continues unabated,” he wrote.
“I hope and pray people who created this cancerous state on Palestinian land to get rid of European jews burn in hell.”
The Australian Jewish Association (AJA) described the comments as “Nazi-like hatred” and questioned whether the Anthony Albanese government would respond with the same measures it has taken in other diplomatic disputes.
The office of the Israeli Prime Minister also condemned the remarks, calling them “outrageous” and saying such rhetoric was unacceptable from any government engaged in international diplomacy.
Earlier, in a joint statement, Prime Minister Albanese and Foreign Minister Senator Penny Wong thanked Pakistan for its role in supporting ceasefire negotiations and advancing efforts to reduce tensions.
The statement said: “We thank and support the work of negotiators, including Pakistan, Egypt, Türkiye and Saudi Arabia, in advancing de-escalation efforts. Australia wants to see the ceasefire upheld and a resolution to the conflict.”
AJA has pointed to previous Australian sanctions against Israeli officials and asked whether similar action would be considered in this case. The controversy comes as Australia maintains a broader diplomatic push for de-escalation in the Middle East.
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