Australian Government Clarifies Stance on Golan Heights After Penny Wong's Majdal Shams Comment

Aug 1, 2024, 01:17 AM

The Australian government is facing backlash after Foreign Minister Penny Wong mistakenly referred to the town of Majdal Shams in the Israel-occupied Golan Heights as an 'Israeli town.' This statement has sparked controversy as Majdal Shams is internationally recognized as a Syrian city, with only Israel and the United States acknowledging the Golan Heights as Israeli territory. The Australian government has since clarified its stance, reiterating that the Golan Heights is Syrian territory illegally occupied by Israel. The incident has highlighted the sensitive nature of geopolitical terminology and the importance of accurate historical references in diplomatic communications. Additionally, Israeli media reportedly deleted an article admitting that Majdal Shams, where children died, is a Syrian city.