THE father of expelled Israeli diplomat Amir Laty yesterday denied his son was a spy and claimed he was not even interrogated by Australian authorities before he was kicked out. In the first interview given by a Laty family member since the scandal emerged, Joseph Laty called on Australia to present evidence to support its dramatic action. "My son has never been involved in spying. He is a decent man," Dr Laty told The Sunday Telegraph at his home south of Tel Aviv. "He has done nothing wrong. The questions need to be directed towards the Australian Government."
The scandal has strained relations between the two countries and threatens to overshadow the historic state visit to Australia this week of Israeli President Moshe Katzav, who arrives in Sydney tomorrow. But Mr Katzav said he was not concerned the squabble would impact on his visit. "Our relationship with Australia is so close, so warm, that I don't believe that issue will put any shadow on my state visit," said.
Dr Laty, an industrial chemist who works on the shores of the Dead Sea, said his son was traumatised by the Australian Government action - particularly as it had not sought to question him prior to his removal. "They did not even question him. Even Pontius Pilate questioned Jesus when he was accused of committing crimes. But nobody questioned Amir."
Dr Laty said he was especially disappointed as he had always admired Australians. As a boy he would gaze at the local war memorial where Australian diggers who fought in Palestine in World War II. "I looked at their graves with wonder," Dr Laty said. "Here were men who went across the world to fight for the liberty of my homeland. So I have always respected and admired your countrymen. But I can't really comment because I want to ensure my son's career is not jeopardised."
Amir Laty was expelled on December 28 after he formed a friendship with Caitlin Ruddock, the daughter of Federal Attorney General Philip Ruddock.
| Ah, a reverse honey trap. |
Subsequent investigations revealed he was also romantically linked to a senior adviser in the office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet. She blew the whistle on him to ASIO amid fears he was trying to gather sensitive information.
| "The cad! He only loved me for my papers!" |
When asked about his son's alleged romantic liaisons with Australian women, Mr Laty refused to comment and threw his hands up in the air.
| "Oy! What's a father to do, anyhow?" |
The expulsion has sparked a behind-the-scenes row between Israel and Australia over Australia's refusal to provide any explanation for its decision. |