Israeli leader claims Australian prime minister’s legacy ‘tarnished’ by decision to recognise a Palestinian state.

While Israel's prime minister has criticised Australia's decision on Palestinian statehood — even calling Anthony Albanese a "weak" leader — experts say this kind of treatment is far from unusual.

Australia and Israel have taken diplomatic efforts against each other as tensions between the two nations over the war in Gaza grow.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has dismissed accusations from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who called the Australian leader a "weak politician" for recognizing a Palestinian state.

Israel's foreign minister said on Monday he had revoked the visas of Australian diplomats to the Palestinian Authority, following a decision by Canberra to recognise a Palestinian state and cancel an Israeli lawmaker's visa.

Australia's relationship with Israel is "the worst it has ever been" after the Netanyahu government revoked visas for Australian representatives to the Palestinian Authority.

Australia and Israel are – were – traditional allies. A former leader of Australia’s Labor party and then president of the United Nations General Assembly, Herbert Evatt, played a significant role

Former foreign minister Alexander Downer says Australia’s falling out with Israel is “truly tragic”. Mr Downer told Sky News host Chris Kenny that Australia was one of the “key players” in helping to bring the state of Israel into existence. “It is truly a tragedy that Australia is not a robust supporter of a great liberal democracy like Israel.