Sydney: Foreign Minister Penny Wong said on Tuesday morning that the previous government's decision to recognize West Jerusalem as Israel's capital would be reversed.

Penny Wong described the recognition of Jerusalem as an odd tactic used by the previous Liberal Party-led government to gain support in the elections.

But the Israeli government criticized Australia's decision to withdraw its recognition of Jerusalem as the country's capital.

Australia's ambassador was summoned to complain and said the announcement by the Australian federal government was rash and downright childish.

Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid criticized the move in a statement released on Tuesday, stating that Jerusalem is the eternal and only capital of Israel and will never change.

The Foreign Affairs Department had already deleted references to the previous government's recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital, although the Australian cabinet made a formal decision on the matter on Tuesday morning.

Speaking after Tuesday's Cabinet meeting, Foreign Minister Pennywong said Australia was a staunch friend of Israel and an unwavering supporter of the Palestinian people.

A decision on the status of Jerusalem should be made as part of the peace talks between Israel and the Palestinian people.

According to Australia's past and longstanding position, the status of Jerusalem is a contentious issue.

She stated unequivocally that Australia's embassy had always been in Tel Aviv and would remain there.