Unexpected diplomatic tension between Canberra and Tel Aviv after the cancellation of an Israeli deputy's visa

The Australian-Israeli relations have entered a new phase of tension after Canberra announced the cancellation of the visa of the right-wing Israeli deputy Simcha Rothman, just before a tour during which he was scheduled to give several speeches in Sydney and Melbourne.

Australian Interior Minister Tony Burke explained that the decision came in light of what he described as "hate speech," stating: "If you are coming to Australia to spread a message of hate and division, we do not want you here. Australia is a country where everyone should feel safe." Under this decision, Rothman will not be able to enter Australia for three years.

Rothman, a member of the Knesset from the "Religious Zionism" party, which is part of Netanyahu's coalition, is known for his hardline positions against the establishment of a Palestinian state and his repeated calls to annex the West Bank. He was supposed to participate in events organized by the "Australian Jewish Association."

Tel Aviv did not delay in responding; Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar announced tightening restrictions on granting visas to Australians and revoking residence permits granted to Australian representatives in the Palestinian Authority, in a move that seemed to be a "reciprocal response."

This development comes at a sensitive time, as Australia is preparing next month to recognize a Palestinian state, which exacerbates tensions with Netanyahu's government, which is also facing increasing isolation after recent Western sanctions on its ministers Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben Gvir for incitement to violence in the West Bank.