The move, praised by some Middle East observers as a diplomatic breakthrough, has drawn sharp condemnation from Israel, the United States, and Australia’s conservative opposition.
Australia’s recognition was coordinated with the United Kingdom and Canada. It comes amid ongoing conflict in Gaza, triggered by the brutal Hamas-led terrorist attacks of October 2023.
During the visit, Fijian ministers and officials will meet Israeli counterparts to progress initiatives including maritime and border security, training, technology exchange, and modern agricultural practices.
Australia remains one of the best countries in the world. But preserving its strengths requires vigilance. Extremists on both the left and the right must be resisted.
ASIO had gathered credible evidence that the Iranian government directed the October 2024 attack on Lewis’ Continental Kitchen in Sydney and the December firebombing of the Adass Israel Synagogue in Melbourne.
The arrest follows charges laid against a 21-year-old Werribee man last month and a 20-year-old Melton South man last year for allegedly stealing a vehicle used in the attack.
“This is a foreign policy humiliation and diplomatic crisis of Mr Albanese’s own making. Mr Albanese should act immediately to begin repairing this vital relationship.”
Chris Rua Antony died in hospital on February 20, a week after he was struck by a car while walking home from school along Pound Road in Narre Warren South.
Many senior Hamas leaders have lived for years in luxury abroad, in places such as Qatar and elsewhere, far removed from the consequences of the war they help direct.
Social Services Minister Tanya Plibersek described Ramadan nights in Lakemba as one of Sydney’s great traditions, pointing to the bustling streets and strong sense of community.
