Israel responded quickly and harshly to Australia’s announcement that it is reversing the previous government’s decision to recognize west Jerusalem as Israel’s capital out of fear that Canberra will soon recognize a Palestinian state, Israeli media reported on Tuesday evening.

Ynet quoted a former Israeli diplomat as saying that Israel’s main concern about Canberra’s announcement was the possible future recognition of a Palestinian state. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who entered office in May, is a long-time critic of Israel and his Labor Party has promised to recognize a Palestinian state.

The report added that Canberra’s announcement on Tuesday violated all diplomatic protocols as Israel was not informed beforehand of the decision and even the Australian ambassador to Israel was unaware of the move.

Following the announcement, Israeli Foreign Ministry director Aliza Bin Noun summoned Australian Ambassador to Israel Paul Griffiths, reprimanding him for the “wretched decision that ignores the deep and eternal connection between Israel and its historical capital, and runs counter to the positive ties between Israel and Australia.”

She added that the announcement could spur terror groups in the Shomron to increase terror and destabilize the region.

(YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)