On Friday, the Australian Financial Review reported China had notified oil refiners to halt all exports, casting doubt over at least two cargoes due to be shipped to Australia.

"My Government will do all we can to keep Australians safe and protect our personnel who are there in the region as well.”

Bob Katter MP argued Australia should only accept migrants from societies that uphold the rule of law, democratic governance, religious freedom, egalitarian values and strong work ethics.

What has raised eyebrows, however, is the abruptness and severity of the penalty, reportedly imposed without the usual procedural safeguards such as a formal review or right of reply.

“Australia is calling for a ceasefire. For the immediate release of the hostages. For aid to flow to those in desperate need. And for the terrorists of Hamas to have no role in Gaza’s future. And this week, Australia recognised the State of Palestine.”

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) and a joint counter-terrorism taskforce are investigating the alleged plot, with a suspect now in custody.

In this context, Israel’s unpaid oil debt is no minor bookkeeping error. It’s the scar tissue of a much deeper wound.

Leader of the Opposition Peter Dutton revealed he had written to the Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in November 2023, urging a National Cabinet meeting to tackle the issue, only to be rebuffed.

Israel has a narrow window to inflict a major blow against it – and Netanyahu is unlikely to let this moment pass.

Since January 2024, Australia has provided support to coalition strikes aimed at protecting international shipping transiting the Red Sea.