Australia Issues Formal Condemnation Amid High-Level Visit
The Australian government has conveyed an organized rejection of the recent Israeli decision to further develop settlements in the occupied West Bank. This diplomatic action against Israel is taken just before the Israeli President Isaac Herzog is scheduled to come to Canberra for a state visit, which puts it under a cloud, thereby overshadowing the high-profile interaction between the two sides. The timing of this incident is a true reflection of the meticulous juggling that Australia is trying to perform between the need granted to the strategic partner to remain critical and to the superior authority which it claims to follow depending on international laws.
This Israeli security cabinet has resolved a plan over the weekend which will help streamline processes for Jewish settlers to purchase land and broaden the boundaries for the extension of Israeli administrative control in the West Bank. Widely, these measures are regarded by the international community as a precedent to the formalization of Israeli territorial occupation in the lands acquired by military force in the Six-Day War of 1967, lands to which the Palestinians have romantic aspirations of a state.
Taking a Backward Look on an Old Policy
In its communiqué issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Australia expressed its utmost concern. The Bureau reiterated its view that the settlements are, in fact, illegal as per the international law and that they are one of the primary reasons why peace has been eluding solutions. The statement threw light on the fact that these actions, in any case, diminish the likelihood of a negotiated two-state solution, a proposal on which success both major Australian political parties have rallied behind for several decades.
This statement is the first time Australia voiced out such a direct; it’s not the first time but its straightforwardness and timing, along with the arrival of President Herzog, make a clear statement. Diplomatic channels indicate that the Australian government considered the address to the cabinet a moral imperative in order to join forces with Western partners, such as the EU and the U.S., that have leveled similar allegations in the last few days.
Walking a Diplomatic Wire
The Israeli President Herzog’s visit, which was planned several months ago, is primarily aimed at celebrating technology collaboration, security, and historical relations. The Australian executive branch has exercised caution for separating its contesting policy from its respect for Israel’s President and its citizens. Australian officials replied that the dialogue will be a crucial step for deep and fruitful conversations on various questions including pathways to peace.
Commentators point out that Australia’s decision is the result of the rising international demand upon Israel with regard to the settlement business. Though President Herzog acts as more of a figurehead, his journey still creates an opportunity for Australia to voice its concerns through the highest channel. The subsequent days will determine whether the close diplomatic ties will endure the test of deep disagreements over a long-standing conflict.
Source: The Sydney Morning Herald
