Israel has revoked the visas of Australian diplomats to the Palestinian Authority in retaliation for Australia’s recent decision to recognise a Palestinian state and for cancelling the visa of an Israeli lawmaker, officials said Monday.
The Australian government had blocked the visa of Simcha Rothman, a parliamentarian from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition, who has publicly opposed Palestinian statehood and called for Israel to annex the occupied West Bank. In response, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar announced that Australia’s representatives to the Palestinian Authority would have their visas revoked. Saar also instructed Israel’s embassy in Canberra to scrutinize any future Australian visa applications.
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong condemned the move as “unjustified,” saying Israel’s actions undermine international efforts for peace and a two-state solution. The Palestinian foreign ministry also criticised Israel’s decision as illegal and in violation of international law.
Australia plans to officially recognise a Palestinian state next month, aiming to boost international momentum toward a ceasefire in Gaza, the release of hostages, and renewed two-state negotiations.
Rothman, whose planned visit to Australia was organised by the Australian Jewish Association, said his visa cancellation was due to comments the Australian government deemed “controversial and inflammatory,” including his warning that Palestinian statehood could threaten Israel and his support for Israeli sovereignty over the West Bank.
Australia’s Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke stated that anyone seeking to promote division or hate in Australia would not be welcome. The move comes amid sanctions imposed earlier this year on Israeli ministers Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben-Gvir for inciting violence against Palestinians in the West Bank.
