(MENAFN) The Australian government has revoked the visa of far-right Israeli lawmaker Simcha Rothman, citing concerns over inflammatory rhetoric toward Palestinians, media reported Monday.

Rothman, a senior figure in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's ruling coalition and head of Israel’s Constitution, Law and Justice Committee, is now barred from entering Australia for the next three years.

The decision was made by Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke, who issued a statement condemning Rothman's remarks. Rothman had previously supported the removal of Palestinians from Gaza and referred to Palestinian children as Israel’s “enemies.”

“Our government takes a hard line on people who seek to come to our country and spread division,” Burke stated.

“If you are coming to Australia to spread a message of hate and division, we don't want you here,” he added. “Under our government, Australia will be a country where everyone can be safe, and feel safe.”

Rothman, affiliated with the far-right Religious Zionism party, had been scheduled to appear next Thursday at a “solidarity tour” in Sydney, hosted by the Australian Jewish Association.

This development comes as Australia prepares to formally recognize an independent State of Palestine at next month’s UN General Assembly.

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