Australia has barred far-right Israeli politician Simcha Rothman from entering the country, citing concerns that his visit would promote “hate and division.” The decision, confirmed by Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke, blocks Rothman from traveling to Australia for a planned “solidarity tour” in August.
Visa Application Rejected
Rothman, a member of the Religious Zionism party and part of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition, was scheduled to attend public events in Sydney and Melbourne, along with two private gatherings. However, his visa application was rejected, with authorities confirming he will not be able to apply again for at least three years.
Burke stressed that Australia applies strict standards to anyone seeking to visit the country.
“Our government takes a hard line on people who seek to come to our country and spread division,” Burke said in a statement. “If you are coming to Australia to spread a message of hate and division, we don’t want you here.”
Controversial Remarks
Rothman is one of the most outspoken members of Israel’s right-wing political landscape. He has previously described children in Gaza as ‘enemies’ and has called for Israel to assume full control of the occupied West Bank.
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His remarks and political stance have often drawn criticism from international rights groups, which accuse him of fueling tensions in the already volatile Middle East.
Planned Events in Australia
The politician’s trip was organized by the Australian Jewish Association (AJA), a right-leaning group. He was expected to deliver speeches at public forums and meet with community groups supportive of his views.
Critics argued that his presence would inflame local debates and risk importing Middle Eastern divisions into Australian society. Burke’s move to deny Rothman entry reflects Canberra’s attempt to keep such tensions at bay.
Australian Government’s Stance
The Labor government has increasingly emphasized its policy of preventing foreign figures who may bring intolerance or incitement into the country. Officials have stressed that freedom of speech has limits when it risks damaging social harmony and public safety.
This latest move signals that Australia will continue to monitor visiting political figures closely, especially amid the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict that has sparked global outrage and widespread protests.
Wider Context
Rothman has been a central figure in Israel’s domestic politics, particularly for his role in judicial overhaul efforts that sparked mass protests within Israel earlier this year. His political party, Religious Zionism, advocates hardline nationalist policies and has repeatedly pushed for expanded Israeli settlements in the West Bank.
In Australia, pro-Palestinian groups had already voiced opposition to Rothman’s visit, warning it could increase tensions in a country that has seen large-scale demonstrations over Israel’s military actions in Gaza.
Settler Activity in Masafer Yatta, West Bank
Meanwhile, in the occupied West Bank, tensions are also intensifying. Verified videos show Israeli settlers operating bulldozers and heavy machinery in Masafer Yatta, south of Hebron, to carve out new roads for settlement expansion.
The activity, carried out under Israeli military protection, is seen by Palestinian groups as preparation for a new settlement outpost.
Human rights organizations have long warned that such actions are part of Israel’s systematic policy to forcibly displace Palestinian communities. In July, Israel’s government submitted a request to its High Court of Justice seeking approval to demolish at least 12 Palestinian villages in Masafer Yatta, declaring the area a military “firing zone.”
Escalating Humanitarian Crisis
The combination of heavy bombardments in Gaza and escalating settler activities in the West Bank underscores the deepening humanitarian crisis across Palestinian territories.
With no functioning ceasefire in place and diplomatic talks still uncertain, civilians remain caught in the crossfire — many without shelter, medical aid, or safe passage.
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