Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has sparked controversy by criticizing Foreign Minister Penny Wong's planned attendance at the 80th anniversary commemoration of the liberation of Auschwitz. Dutton argues that Wong's stance on the Israel-Gaza conflict makes her an inappropriate representative for Australia at this sensitive event. Wong's supporters, including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, defend her participation, emphasizing her lifelong commitment to tolerance and her role in combating antisemitism.
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has criticized Foreign Minister Penny Wong 's attendance at the 80th anniversary commemoration of the liberation of Auschwitz, deeming her 'the most inappropriate person' to represent Australia. Dutton expressed support for a petition with over 10,000 signatures calling for Wong's withdrawal, citing her stance on the Israel-Gaza conflict as the reason.
He argued that Wong's position on the issue has strained Australia's relationship with Israel and that her presence at the event would be insensitive given the current climate. A spokesperson for Wong refuted Dutton's claims, emphasizing her lifelong commitment to 'acceptance, tolerance, and respect for all people.' They stated that the event provided an opportunity for individuals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives to unite in condemning antisemitism. Wong, accompanied by Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus, whose family history is deeply intertwined with the Holocaust, is scheduled to attend the commemoration in Poland. Dreyfus's father escaped Nazi Germany, and his great-grandparents perished in the Holocaust. Dutton's remarks come amidst a surge in antisemitic hate crimes in Australia and coincided with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's address at the National Press Club. Albanese defended Wong's participation, highlighting her personal history with discrimination and her unwavering stance against antisemitism. He stressed the importance of bipartisan unity in condemning antisemitism and called for a collective effort to prevent the recurrence of Holocaust atrocities. The Prime Minister also emphasized that Jewish communities deserve support and understanding from both sides of the political aisle. He reaffirmed his government's commitment to combating antisemitism and underscored the significance of the upcoming commemoration
AUSCHWITZ Antisemitism PETER DUTTON PENNY WONG ISRAEL-GAZA CONFLICT HOLOCAUST AUSTRALIA POLITICS
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