Australia Cancels Visa for Far-Right Israeli Politician Rothman

Australia's government has revoked the visa of Simcha Rothman, a far-right Israeli Knesset member and head of Israel's Constitution, Law and Justice Committee, just hours before his scheduled visit for a speaking tour supporting Jewish communities. Interior Minister Tony Burke stated that Rothman was banned because his presence was seen as promoting hate and division, emphasizing Australia's stance on ensuring safety and unity within the country. Rothman, affiliated with Israel's Religious Zionism party, had made controversial statements about Palestinians and called for total Israeli control over the West Bank. The Australian Jewish Association condemned the visa cancellation as antisemitic and warned it could discourage Jewish visits to Australia, also briefing contacts in the U.S. Trump administration about the issue. This is not the first time Australia has blocked far-right Israeli figures, having previously denied entry to former justice minister Ayelet Shaked and Israeli-American influencer Hillel Fuld over similar concerns. The move comes amid Australia's increasingly critical stance toward Israel, including plans to recognize a Palestinian state soon.