Israel responds to Australian visa ban

Israel tightens its stance as Canberra bans a Israeli lawmaker, prompting a visa review for Australian officials

Israel strengthens response after Australia blocks diplomats and questions visa requests

Israel announced on Monday that it had revoked the residency visas of Australia’s representatives to the Palestinian Authority, hours after Canberra barred far-right Religious Zionism MK Simcha Rothman from entering Australia. The move was delivered to the Australian ambassador in Tel Aviv and comes amid Australia’s recent steps to recognize a Palestinian state and to refuse visas to several Israeli figures, including former justice minister Ayelet Shaked.

Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar said the Australian actions amount to fanning antisemitism and ordered the Israeli embassy in Canberra to carefully examine any official Australian visa applications for entry to Israel. The policy’s scope was not clarified, leaving questions about whether it applies only to officials or to broader Australian requests. Rothman described Australia’s decision as the result of pressure from Islamist groups. Australian Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke defended the visa cancellation, saying the country would not host individuals who spread hate. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese linked the move to Australia’s stance on a two-state solution, noting that any Palestinian state would come with reforms and assurances that Hamas would have no part in its government.

Highlights

The coming days will show whether this sparks renewed talks or a deeper rift between partners