• Australia's Foreign Minister labels Israel's visa cancellation as "unjustified."
• Israel revoked visas for Australian diplomats following Australia's recognition of a Palestinian state.
• The controversy involves a far-right Israeli lawmaker barred from entering Australia.
• Australia is working towards a two-state solution amid ongoing violence in Gaza.
• Several countries are aligning with Australia on Palestinian statehood recognition.

Australia's Foreign Minister, Penny Wong, has condemned Israel's decision to revoke the visas of Australian diplomats to the Palestinian Authority, calling it an "unjustified reaction" to Australia’s recognition of Palestinian statehood. Wong asserted that this action undermines international diplomacy at a time when dialogue is crucial for peace and the two-state solution, reiterating Australia's commitment to support these efforts alongside international partners, according to SCMP, AA, and TRT Global.

The Israeli foreign minister, Gideon Saar, announced the visa revocation in response to Australia's decision to recognize a Palestinian state, which is set to occur during the upcoming UN General Assembly in November. This revocation has raised tensions, particularly as it coincides with Australia's cancellation of a visa for Israeli Knesset member Simcha Rothman, whose statements regarding Palestinians have been deemed inflammatory. Saar criticized Australia’s actions, calling it an "unjustifiable" diplomatic stance, according to SCMP and AA.

In her statements, Wong emphasized that Australia will continue to ensure the safety and unity of its communities while opposing hate speech. She pointed out the broader context of violence in Gaza, where over 62,000 people have been reportedly killed since October 2023, and reaffirmed her government's commitment to contribute to a peaceful resolution in the region. This ongoing humanitarian situation contributes to the urgency of Australia’s recognition of Palestinian statehood, as also noted in previous reports, according to AA, and TRT Global.

Moreover, Australia’s decision aligns with a growing number of nations advocating for Palestinian statehood at the UN, including countries like France, the UK, and Canada. As international opinions shift, the Australian government aims to bolster global diplomatic efforts that favor health, safety, and fairness for all people affected by this conflict, according to SCMP, AA, and TRT Global.