The Australian government announced a measure to temporarily suspend the entry rights of Iranian nationals holding valid tourist visas for six months, citing security concerns and preventing disguised asylum claims. Human rights groups and opposition MPs have heavily criticized this as a "moral failure" and a dangerous precedent.
Australia announced a six-month travel ban on Iranian tourists with valid visas, effective from this Thursday, due to concerns that these tourists might not return home after their visas expire amid rapidly changing global circumstances.
Tony Burke, Minister for Home Affairs, stated that permanent residency decisions in Australia should be carefully considered by the government and not the result of simply booking a tourist ticket and refusing to leave. He emphasized that this measure will give the government time to properly assess the situation amid global tensions. However, exemptions will be made for spouses and children of Australian citizens, with possible special consideration for parents.
The directive has caused significant backlash, with refugee advocacy groups and various politicians strongly condemning it. The Asylum Seeker Resource Centre called it a "betrayal of the Iranian community" and a shocking moral failure. While Iranians seek safety, the government is closing the door on them.
Independent MP Zali Steggall warned that canceling legally issued visas undermines confidence in the immigration system and sets a dangerous precedent. The Greens criticized the measure as revealing the government's true nature—claiming to support Iranians but effectively blocking asylum applications entirely.
This move follows Australia's recent humanitarian visas granted to seven Iranian women national football players earlier this month. Currently, the ban directly affects about 6,800 Iranian visa holders and importantly applies exclusively to "Iranian nationals" with no involvement of other countries.
,BBC