Australian FM: Timing of Jerusalem recognition withdrawal was ‘deeply regrettable’

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong admits the timing of her announcement this week, in which Canberra reversed the previous government’s recognition of West Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, was “deeply regrettable.”

In an article published in the Australian Jewish News, Wong acknowledges that the move shouldn’t have been made on the Jewish festival of Simchat Torah, and expresses regret that “the shift away from Australia’s longstanding position, and the shift back this week, have been distressing for communities that have a deep-rooted and keenly felt stake in the cessation of conflict, particularly the Australian Jewish community.”

But Wong defends the move itself, saying former prime minister Scott Morrison’s recognition was made not out of “conviction” but out of “cynicism.”

“As a responsible international actor, Australia will not impose its view of the final borders and boundaries, which should be the result of peace negotiations,” she writes.

“Reasonable people can disagree, as many readers will disagree with me. But I will always be straight with you, and I won’t use this issue to score points.”