News
September 04, 2025
'Appalled': John Howard accuses PM of betraying relations with Israel over Palestine
Mr Howard issued a joint statement on Thursday.
Former Prime Minister John Howard has launched a scathing attack on the current Prime Minister, accusing him of betraying Australia's long-standing relationship with Israel over recent policy shifts regarding Palestine. Howard issued a joint statement on Thursday, expressing his deep disappointment and using the word "appalled" to describe his reaction to what he perceives as a significant departure from established bipartisan support for Israel.
The statement, co-signed by prominent figures within the Liberal party, highlights concerns that the government's revised stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict risks undermining decades of close diplomatic ties and signaling a weakening of Australia’s commitment to Israel’s security. While the specific details of the policy shift weren't immediately available, Howard's strong condemnation suggests a substantial change in the government's rhetoric or actions concerning the region.
The joint statement argues that a balanced approach to the conflict is crucial, but emphasizes the need to stand firmly with Israel in the face of ongoing threats and regional instability. It raises fears that the current government's approach may embolden those who seek to delegitimize Israel and undermine the prospects for a lasting peace agreement.
Howard's intervention is particularly significant given his reputation as a staunch supporter of Israel throughout his time in office. His criticism carries considerable weight within conservative circles and is likely to fuel further debate about Australia's foreign policy direction in the Middle East.
The statement calls on the Prime Minister to reconsider the current trajectory and reaffirm Australia's unwavering commitment to its alliance with Israel. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining a consistent and principled approach to foreign policy, warning against actions that could damage Australia's credibility on the international stage. The move is expected to trigger a significant backlash from within the opposition and could potentially create divisions within the government itself, as members grapple with the implications of the policy shift and the strong criticism it has attracted. The coming days are likely to see further developments as the government responds to Howard's accusations and attempts to clarify its position on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The statement, co-signed by prominent figures within the Liberal party, highlights concerns that the government's revised stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict risks undermining decades of close diplomatic ties and signaling a weakening of Australia’s commitment to Israel’s security. While the specific details of the policy shift weren't immediately available, Howard's strong condemnation suggests a substantial change in the government's rhetoric or actions concerning the region.
The joint statement argues that a balanced approach to the conflict is crucial, but emphasizes the need to stand firmly with Israel in the face of ongoing threats and regional instability. It raises fears that the current government's approach may embolden those who seek to delegitimize Israel and undermine the prospects for a lasting peace agreement.
Howard's intervention is particularly significant given his reputation as a staunch supporter of Israel throughout his time in office. His criticism carries considerable weight within conservative circles and is likely to fuel further debate about Australia's foreign policy direction in the Middle East.
The statement calls on the Prime Minister to reconsider the current trajectory and reaffirm Australia's unwavering commitment to its alliance with Israel. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining a consistent and principled approach to foreign policy, warning against actions that could damage Australia's credibility on the international stage. The move is expected to trigger a significant backlash from within the opposition and could potentially create divisions within the government itself, as members grapple with the implications of the policy shift and the strong criticism it has attracted. The coming days are likely to see further developments as the government responds to Howard's accusations and attempts to clarify its position on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Category:
Politics