Australia revoked Simchy Rotman's visa, accusing him of intending "to spread hatred and division". Representing the far-right spiritual organization Zionism of politics was to execute a series of speeches in Australia in judaic institutions there. Israeli abroad Minister Gideon Saar criticized Australian authorities for “saturating anti-Semitism” and “harassing Israel”. He besides revoked the visas of Australian diplomats accredited to the Palestinian Authority, who, however, permanently reside in Israel.
The figures indicate that there are about 117 1000 Jews surviving in Australia, which account for 0.46% of 25.4 million inhabitants of the country. After the war in the Gaza Strip broke out in the fall of 2023, Australia underwent a wave of anti-Semitic attacks, including arsons aimed at synagogues, schools and nurseries, and private homes and cars. Police have classified any of them as acts of terror.
Prime Minister Albanese announced last week that Australia would recognise Palestine's statehood at the United Nations General Assembly in September. akin statements were made earlier by the governments of France, large Britain and Canada, which was criticised by the Israeli authorities. Australian diplomacy chief Penny Wong estimated that the visa withdrawal to diplomats was an “unwarranted response” to Israel.
Benjamin Netanjahu wrote in the news on the authoritative account of the Israeli Prime Minister on X that "history would remember Albanese as a weak politician who betrayed Israel and abandoned Australian Jews." On the same day, Netanjahu added that he instructed the embassy in Canberra to “consider carefully all authoritative visa applications” from Australia.
It is noteworthy that the relation between Israel and Australia has long been complex and delicate. Both sides have different views on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and human rights. The withdrawal of Mr Rotman's visa and Israel's consequence are only further aspects of this hard process.
In this context, the function of diplomacy is crucial. The authorities of both countries should effort to find a common language and address problems that endanger stableness in the region. The global community should reflect on the causes and consequences of specified tensions and look at milder and more constructive solutions.
