Israel’s foreign minister, Gideon Sa’ar, has revoked the visas of Australian representatives to the Palestinian Authority, citing Australia’s “unjustified refusal” to grant visas to Israeli figures and its intention to recognise Palestinian statehood.
In a post on X, Sa’ar said the decision followed the Australian government’s cancellation of Simcha Rothman’s visa, a far-right Israeli politician scheduled for a speaking tour. He accused the Australian government of fueling antisemitism with “false accusations”. Sa’ar also instructed the Israeli embassy in Canberra to “carefully examine any official Australian visa application for entry to Israel”.
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong called the decision “unjustified”, stating that the Netanyahu government was isolating Israel and undermining international efforts towards peace and a two-state solution. She reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to a two-state solution, a ceasefire in Gaza, and the release of hostages.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced in September that Australia would recognise a Palestinian state at the United Nations General Assembly. Palestine’s foreign ministry condemned the visa revocation as “illegal” and a display of “Israeli arrogance”.
Rothman, a member of the Religious Zionism party opposed to a two-state solution, had been scheduled to appear at events in Sydney and Melbourne. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke confirmed the visa cancellation, saying Australia takes a hard line on those seeking to spread division and hate.
Israeli politicians including Bezalel Smotrich, Amichai Chikli, and Benny Gantz criticised Australia’s decision, while Rothman accused the Australian government of “clear and blatant antisemitism”.
