On November 21, 2024, the Australian government made a controversial decision to deny a visa to Ayelet Shaked, a former Israeli Justice and Interior Minister. Shaked, a prominent right-wing political figure known for her hardline stance on Israeli settlements in the West Bank, had planned to attend a security conference in Canberra next week. The Australian Department of Home Affairs informed Shaked that her visa application had been rejected, citing concerns that her presence could “vilify” Australians or “incite discord” within the community. This decision has sparked a wave of criticism and raised significant questions about Australia’s shifting foreign policy stance toward Israel.
Visa Refusal Under Migration Act
The Australian authorities explained that the refusal was made under sections of the Migration Act, which grants the government the power to deny entry to individuals if their presence is deemed likely to incite division or hostility. Specifically, the act allows for visa rejections if the applicant is thought to potentially “vilify a segment of the Australian community, or incite discord in the Australian community or a segment of that community.” The Home Affairs Department concluded that Shaked’s visit could have such an impact, although no further details were provided on the specific factors influencing this decision.
The visa denial is final and cannot be appealed, further fueling the controversy. Shaked was due to attend a conference organized by the Australia/Israel and Jewish Affairs Council (AIJAC), which planned to discuss defense and security issues, but this plan has now been derailed.
Shaked’s Reaction: A Betrayal of Democracy
Shaked has strongly criticized the Australian government’s decision, calling it “shameful” and an affront to the democratic values that should bind nations together. In a statement, she described the move as a “hostile, anti-Semitic act” and accused the Australian government of turning against Israel. “This is an affront to the Jewish community and a stain on the Australian government’s moral standing,” she said, expressing disbelief that a former government minister could be denied entry to a democratic country like Australia.
Shaked’s political views have often drawn criticism, particularly her support for Israeli settlements in the West Bank, which are considered illegal under international law. Her controversial remarks about Palestinians, including her call for the mass displacement of residents in Gaza, have also attracted international condemnation. Despite her history of provocative statements, Shaked had been granted a visa to Australia less than two years ago, leading many to question the shift in policy.
Reactions and Criticism
The decision has not only upset Shaked but has also drawn sharp reactions from various pro-Israel organizations. Colin Rubenstein, the executive director of the Australia/Israel and Jewish Affairs Council, condemned the visa denial as a “disgraceful act of hostility” toward a democratic ally. He described the decision as a failure of perspective and principle, suggesting that Australia had acted undiplomatically in refusing to engage with a former minister of Israel, one of its long-standing allies.
On the other hand, some groups have welcomed the move. Rawan Arraf from the Australian Centre for International Justice praised the government for blocking Shaked’s visa, citing concerns about her potential to incite racial discord. Arraf called for similar scrutiny of other Israeli individuals who may pose a risk to social cohesion in Australia.
Australia’s Shift in Foreign Policy
This decision is part of a broader trend in Australia’s foreign policy, which has recently taken a more critical stance toward Israel. In the past week, Australia voted in favor of a United Nations resolution recognizing Palestinian sovereignty, signaling a shift away from its traditionally pro-Israel stance. The resolution reaffirms Palestinian claims to land in the West Bank, Gaza, and East Jerusalem and condemns Israel’s ongoing settlement activities.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong emphasized that Australia’s vote at the UN reflects its concern over Israel’s settlement activities and its impact on peace efforts. The government has stressed the importance of a two-state solution to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, a stance that has alienated some pro-Israel groups in the country.
What Does This Mean for Australia-Israel Relations?
The visa denial of Ayelet Shaked raises questions about the future of Australia’s relationship with Israel. While both countries have historically enjoyed strong diplomatic ties, this latest development comes at a time of increasing international scrutiny of Israel’s actions in the occupied territories. Will this decision mark a turning point in Australia’s foreign policy, or is it a temporary departure from its long-standing support for Israel?
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