Australia's home affairs minister, Tony Burke, has revoked the visa of far-right Israeli politician Simcha Rothman, barring him from entering the country for three years. Rothman, a Knesset member for the Religious Zionism party, had been scheduled to speak at events in Sydney and Melbourne as part of a 'solidarity tour' organised by the Australian Jewish Association.
Burke stated the government takes a hard line on those who seek to spread division and hate. Rothman accused the Albanese government of antisemitism, claiming the decision was directed at the Jewish community and Israel. His party leader, Bezalel Smotrich, and national security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, both sanctioned by Australia in June, voiced support.
Rothman has previously described Palestinian children in Gaza as 'enemies' and backed Donald Trump's proposal to remove Palestinians from the territory. The progressive Jewish Council of Australia expressed concern over the planned visit, while the Australian Jewish Association defended it as an opportunity for the community to hear diverse views.
