The Australian government has barred Israeli lawmaker Simcha Rothman from entering the country, citing his outspoken support for Israel’s military campaign against Hamas.
Rothman, a member of the Religious Zionist Party, had been scheduled to meet with Jewish organisations in Australia, who in recent months have reported a surge in antisemitic incidents. Officials reversed their decision on the day of his departure, despite initially approving his trip.
It follows a similar episode in June, when pro-Israel activist Hillel Fuld was blocked from visiting after being accused of “Islamophobia.”
Government documents reportedly flagged Rothman’s endorsement of Israel’s war aims, his insistence on Israel’s territorial claims, and his refusal to assign blame to Israel for the conflict. One of the comments highlighted was a 2024 speech in California, where Rothman declared that Israel would continue striking its enemies “relentlessly” to ensure its citizens’ safety.
Rothman denounced the move as “surrendering to terror,” saying the government had chosen to silence debate rather than safeguard public order.
Australian Jewish leaders also criticised the ban, warning it sends a message that their security and rights are not being adequately protected.
The decision comes at a time of heightened political tension, with the Albanese government moving quickly towards recognising a Palestinian state and antisemitic incidents in Australia rising sharply.
