Israeli Politician from Far-Right Blocked from Entering Australia Before Scheduled Public Appearances | Focus on Gaza

A far-right Israeli politician known for his provocative statements against Gazan children and advocacy for Israel’s total control of the West Bank has been denied entry into Australia, ahead of a scheduled “solidarity tour”. Simcha Rothman, a Knesset member from the Religious Zionism party, was set to speak at public and private events in Sydney and Melbourne in August. His visa application was rejected by Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke, who stated that Australia would not welcome individuals aiming to spread division. The decision aligns with Australia’s stance against figures who propagate hate and division. This move comes after similar actions against other controversial figures, such as US rapper Kanye West and law professor Khaled Beydoun. The Australian Jewish Association, which had organized Rothman’s tour, argued that it was not directly linked to current Middle East events, however, the progressive Jewish Council of Australia and others expressed concern, highlighting Israel’s ongoing policies toward Palestinians. Rothman, an advocate for aggressive Israeli policies and a critic of a two-state solution, has also supported President Donald Trump’s proposal to remove Palestinians from Gaza for security reasons. His planned visit highlighted the complexity of Australia’s diplomatic relationships and its stance on international political issues.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/aug/18/far-right-israeli-politician-barred-from-australia-ahead-of-speaking-tour-ntwnfb