Outrage Over Australia’s Ban on Israeli Knesset Member

Simcha Rothmann, a member of the Israeli Knesset, criticized Australia for capitulating to extremist elements after the government barred him from visiting Jewish communities amid rising anti-Semitism, labeling the move as “obviously a new Australian way.”

In a recent interview, Rothmann, who leads the Israeli Religious Zionist Party’s Knesset Constitution and Judicial Committee, reacted to Australia’s decision to revoke his visa just hours before he was scheduled to show solidarity with the Jewish community there. The Australian government justified the ban due to his outspoken support for Israel and his stance on Hamas.

“The Australian government sent me a list of all the ‘bad things’ I said,” Rothmann noted. He highlighted that these included calls for the elimination of Hamas and defending Israel’s position during the ongoing conflict. He pointed out that these views align with mainstream opinions in Israel, and he believes they are also widely held in the American political landscape, mentioning figures like President Trump.

Rothmann indicated that Israeli lawmakers revealed the Australian government had initially approved his visa, only to rescind it under pressure from the Australian Muslim community that threatened violence. “What changed was the threat of violence,” he explained, emphasizing that this fear led to a ban on free speech and stifled the perspectives of their own citizens.

He expressed concern about the timing of the ban, particularly following a spate of anti-Semitic incidents in Australia, including a synagogue being set ablaze. Rothmann remarked that this capitulation to terrorism highlights a troubling new trend in Australian policy.

Even with the ban, Rothmann remains determined to connect with the Jewish community that had invited him, conveying a clear message of support for Jews worldwide facing prejudice and violence.

“This Australian government’s reconciliation with fear has affected my life for two weeks,” he said, calling upon Australian Jews to remember that Israel stands with them amid threats. He reiterated Israel’s legal commitment to assist Jews facing anti-Semitism globally, emphasizing that such support is fundamental to Israeli law.

Rothmann concluded by asserting that in the face of fear, silence is not an option. “You have to speak up about it,” he insisted, advocating for confronting the issue rather than surrendering to it.

In response to this incident, Israel swiftly announced retaliatory measures, including expelling Australian diplomats from Palestinian authority areas and increasing scrutiny on Australian visitors. This situation reflects escalating tensions between the Australian government and Israel, occurring as the Jewish community in Australia confronts more frequent anti-Semitic acts.