Ray Hadley, the former 2GB radio host, has issued a forceful demand for Pauline Hanson to apologise to Australian Muslims following her controversial remarks during a live interview on Sky News. The One Nation leader asserted that Muslims "hate Westerners," sparking immediate backlash and accusations of fuelling dangerous divisions within Australian society.
Heated Exchange on Sky News
During the Monday night interview with host Sharri Markson, Hanson was questioned about the Albanese government's handling of Australian women and children linked to Islamic State. Hanson responded with a sweeping condemnation, stating, "I've got no time for radical Islam, their religion concerns me because of what it says in the Quran. They hate Westerners, and that's what it's all about."
She further challenged the notion of "good Muslims," arguing, "You say there's great Muslims out there, well I'm sorry, how can you tell me there are good Muslims? These people, these women went over, supported their men to fight in terrorism and against our values, our laws." Hanson warned that open borders would lead to suffering, citing examples from France, Denmark, England, and Canada.
Hadley's Stern Rebuke
Hadley, a prominent conservative voice, swiftly condemned Hanson's comments, suggesting they were driven by rising poll numbers for One Nation. "What Pauline said was just wrong, really wrong," he stated. "The fact that she's empowered by the polls, she thinks she's got to keep driving that wedge, and I think she's wrong."
He explicitly warned conservatives not to "think like Pauline Hanson," emphasising the need to avoid divisive rhetoric that could harm social cohesion. Hadley's intervention highlights growing concerns about the impact of such statements on community relations.
Markson Distances Herself
Sharri Markson, the Sky News host, immediately disavowed Hanson's remarks during the broadcast. "As an Australian Jew, I don't support what [Hanson] just said," she told viewers. "Of course I believe the vast majority of Australian Muslims do have a place in Australia and they should be here."
Markson acknowledged the presence of moderate Muslims in Australia, stating, "There are a lot of moderate Muslims in Australia who are, as you put it, good Muslims. I think we can agree that radical extremist Islam that doesn't support Australian values has no place here." Her comments underscored a clear distinction between criticising extremism and generalising about an entire religious community.
Polling Surge Fuels Controversy
The controversy emerges against a backdrop of rising support for One Nation. A recent Roy Morgan poll, conducted after Angus Taylor became Liberal leader, placed One Nation at 21.5 per cent, just behind the Coalition at 23.5 per cent. This surge has raised questions about whether Hanson's increasing political influence is encouraging more provocative statements.
Analysts suggest that Hanson's rhetoric may be strategically aimed at consolidating her base amid the polling boost. However, critics like Hadley argue that such tactics risk deepening societal fractures and alienating moderate voters.
The incident has reignited debates about free speech, religious tolerance, and the responsibilities of political leaders in a multicultural society. As calls for an apology mount, the response from Hanson and her supporters will be closely watched, with potential implications for Australia's political landscape and social harmony.
