Australia Rejects Visa for Former Israeli Minister Ayelet Shaked Sparking Diplomatic Tensions

The Australian government's refusal of a visa for Ayelet Shaked, Israel's ex-justice minister, has triggered outrage in Israel. This significant diplomatic incident highlights growing tensions and differing perspectives on Middle Eastern politics.

P24 News Media

November 22, 2024

1 minute

Australia

The diplomatic relationship between Australia and Israel has come under scrutiny after the Australian government denied a visa to Ayelet Shaked, a former Israeli justice minister. The refusal, confirmed by the office of Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke, has drawn ire from Israeli officials who view it as a politically motivated decision. Shaked, who served in the Knesset until 2022, applied to attend a security conference in Canberra along with events organized by the Australia/Israel and Jewish Affairs Council (AIJAC). However, the specifics behind the visa rejection remain undisclosed, leading to speculation regarding the motives.

In response to the decision, Shaked took to social media, claiming that the current Australian government has adopted an anti-Semitic stance. In a video message shared by AIJAC, she assured the Jewish community in Australia that she would visit during "better days." Her comments have ignited further debate over the nature of Australia’s political climate towards Israel and its citizens.

Reportedly, the Australian newspaper indicated that Shaked's visa was denied based on provisions in the Migration Act that allow refusal if there is a belief that the individual could 'vilify a segment of the Australian community' or 'incite discord' within it. Shaked contended that the government’s decision was rooted in her opposition to the establishment of a Palestinian state. She expressed her views during an appearance on Israel's Channel 12, describing the political backdrop to her visa denial.

The response from the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized the gravity of the situation, labeling the decision as “unacceptable” and indicative of troubling dynamics between the two nations. Oren Marmorstein, a spokesperson for the MFA, described the visa rejection as deeply offensive, suggesting it may have adverse effects on the already complex relations between Australia and Israel.

AIJAC's executive director Colin Rubinstein criticized the decision, calling it a cynical move against a democratic ally. He highlighted that Shaked has faced criticism for her controversial remarks over the years, which have included statements deemed inflammatory regarding Palestinians. During a 2022 interview, she expressed the belief that the city of Khan Younis in Gaza should be transformed into a sports venue, an assertion that drew outrage from various human rights groups.

While Shaked's comments have sparked controversies, the Australian Centre for International Justice supported the government's decision, citing a troubling history of Shaked's remarks which could potentially incite hatred or violence. They pointed to her incendiary comments that could be classified as incitement to genocide under Australian law. These perspectives underscore the intricate and often fraught dialogue surrounding international politics, particularly concerning Israel and Palestine.

The ongoing fallout from this visa denial illustrates the complicated nature of geopolitical relationships, reflecting differing views on national identity, international law, and moral responsibility. As conversations around these topics continue, the international community watches closely, especially regarding how Australia’s policies may evolve in relation to Israel and its leaders.