Advertisement
Australia reverses recognition of West Jerusalem as Israel’s capital
- Foreign Minister Penny Wong said Canberra will not support previous conservative government’s decision that undermines a two-state solution
- She added the city’s status should be decided through peace talks between Israelis and Palestinians
Reading Time:2 minutes
Why you can trust SCMP
5
Australia said on Tuesday it would no longer recognise West Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, reversing a contentious decision by the previous conservative government.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong said the city’s status should be decided through peace talks between Israelis and Palestinians, and not through unilateral decisions.
“We will not support an approach that undermines [a two-state solution], she said, adding: “Australia’s embassy has always been, and remains, in Tel Aviv”.
Advertisement
A conservative government led by Scott Morrison faced a widespread domestic backlash for its 2018 decision to follow US president Donald Trump in naming West Jerusalem as the Israeli capital.
“I know this has caused conflict and distress in part of the Australian community, and today the government seeks to resolve that,” Wong said.
She accused the Morrison government of being motivated by a crucial by-election in a beachside Sydney suburb with a sizeable Jewish community.
Advertisement
Select Voice
Choose your listening speed
Get through articles 2x faster
1.25x
250 WPM
Slow
Average
Fast
1.25x