Relations between Israel and Australia have entered a new phase of confrontation after Tel Aviv announced the cancellation of visas for two Australian diplomats accredited to the Palestinian Authority. The move came shortly after Canberra denied entry to far-right Israeli politician Simcha Rothman and confirmed plans to recognize the State of Palestine at the upcoming UN General Assembly in September.
On August 18, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar declared via social platform X that he had revoked the visas of two Australian representatives in Ramallah, accusing Canberra of “fueling anti-Semitism” and “perpetuating crisis with false claims.”
Sa’ar warned that additional measures may follow, instructing Israel’s embassy in Canberra to carefully review any official visa applications from Australia.
According to ABC News, the decision is likely to affect only two Australian diplomats accredited to the Palestinian Authority. Although based in Ramallah, both diplomats reside in Israel.
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong condemned Israel’s move as “an absurd act,” stressing that at a time when dialogue and diplomacy are urgently needed, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government is instead isolating Israel and undermining global efforts toward peace and a two-state solution.
Wong reaffirmed Canberra’s commitment to working with partners to advance the two-state framework, secure a ceasefire in Gaza, and ensure the release of hostages.
The Palestinian Foreign Ministry also denounced Israel’s visa cancellation, labeling it an “arbitrary measure” that violates the Geneva Conventions, international law, and UN resolutions.
The ministry emphasized that Palestine will continue to recognize Australian envoys as legitimate representatives, underscoring that Israel’s action will only strengthen the determination of Australia and other nations to uphold international law and push forward with the recognition of a Palestinian state as the only viable path to peace.
Diplomatic tensions between Israel and Australia have been rising throughout 2025. In June, Australia joined the UK, Canada, New Zealand, and Norway in imposing sanctions on Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich.
More recently, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced that Australia will formally recognize the State of Palestine during the September UN General Assembly session, aligning with similar decisions by several Western nations, including the UK, Canada, and France.
Israel has strongly objected, insisting that Canberra’s stance undermines the long-standing friendship between the two countries.
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