Israeli ministers have criticised Australia for banning far-right Knesset member Simcha Rothman from entering the country, Al Jazeera reports.

National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir wrote on X: “The active support provided by the Australian government to Hamas and terrorists, and the ban on Knesset member Simcha Rothman, constitutes a historical stain and a disgrace on the Australian government.”

He added: “The jeers from Israeli left-wing activists, collaborators with Hamas, and those distorting Israel’s image in the world are a scandal that will never be erased from them.”

Benny Gantz, leader of the opposition Blue and White party, also criticised Canberra’s move.

“Although there are significant political and ideological differences between me and Knesset member Simcha Rothman, Australia’s decision to prevent him from entering is not only extremely wrong but blatantly hypocritical,” he said.