Australia's PM Anthony Albanese under fire for 'melons' gag about Japanese leader

Australians are gearing up for a political uproar following a clip that surfaced showing Prime Minister Anthony Albanese making a crude joke about a gift presented by his Japanese counterpart, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. The incident took place during an interview with the Bush Deep podcast, where Albanese joked about receiving a "strange" present, specifically a Japanese royal melon, from Takaichi.

Melons in Japan are considered luxury items, with some costing over AUS$270, according to the country's former ambassador to Australia.

Upon learning about the fruit, Takaichi's host jokingly said she looked like Pamela Anderson, to which Albanese responded by holding up his hands and saying, "Got a couple of melons." This comment sparked outrage among the opposition, with Australia's opposition leader demanding an apology from Albanese in parliament on Tuesday. However, Albanese rejected the notion, stating that he rejects the assertion that his comment was disrespectful.

Australia's Foreign Minister Penny Wong also defended Albanese, emphasizing that the prime minister did not intend for his comments to be interpreted in such a manner. She clarified that Takaichi is a friend of Australia and a friend of Albanese.