UPDATE: Israel has just expelled Australian diplomatic representatives in a swift response to Australia’s decision to ban Religious Zionist Party MK Simcha Rothman from entering the country for three years. The announcement came from Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar on Monday, signaling a significant escalation in diplomatic tensions between the two nations.
In a striking move, Israel has revoked residence permits for Australian representatives to the Palestinian Authority operating within its borders. Additionally, Israel will implement rigorous screening procedures for all Australian visa applications. Three diplomatic personnel currently residing in Israel face immediate expulsion, effective immediately.
This decisive action follows Australia’s last-minute cancellation of Rothman’s visa, which occurred less than 24 hours before his planned visit aimed at strengthening ties with Australia’s Jewish community. Sa’ar’s office communicated the decision directly to the Australian ambassador, highlighting Australia’s controversial recognition of a Palestinian state in September and its “unjustified refusal” to grant visas to several Israeli figures, including former Minister Ayelet Shaked.
In a video message, Sa’ar criticized Australia for its actions, stating, “At a time when antisemitism is spreading in Australia, including acts of violence against Jews and Jewish institutions, the Australian government chooses to fuel it instead with false accusations.” He further asserted, “Australia is acting against Israel, Australia is persecuting Israel,” and promised that further measures would be taken.
The diplomatic fallout has garnered widespread condemnation across Israel’s political spectrum. Even those with stark political differences, such as Blue and White Party leader Benny Gantz, expressed solidarity with Rothman, calling Australia’s ban “deeply misguided” and hypocritical. Minister of Aliyah and Integration Ofir Sofer criticized the Australian government for showing “leniency toward terror” while National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir labeled the decision “a historic stain and a disgrace for the Australian government.”
Conversely, Yesh Atid MK Vladimir Beliak voiced criticism towards colleagues supporting Rothman, claiming that the Israeli public does not stand behind him and is indifferent to his entry into Australia.
This diplomatic crisis marks a significant turning point in Australia-Israel relations, coming on the heels of Australia’s sanctions against Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and Ben-Gvir in June. Observers are closely monitoring the situation as tensions escalate, raising concerns about the broader implications for bilateral relations and regional stability.
As the situation develops, further announcements and potential retaliatory measures from both sides are anticipated. This urgent diplomatic crisis reflects the complexities of international relations and the human impact of governmental decisions, making it crucial for the global community to stay informed.
