Critics say NGA decision ‘is nothing less than a disgraceful act of censorship’ that is ‘rooted in political cowardice’

• Follow our Australia news live blog for latest updates
• Get our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcast

The National Gallery of Australia claims it covered Palestinian flags in a major exhibition after undertaking a security threat assessment, but critics say the decision was “rooted in political cowardice”.

The Guardian this week revealed two Palestinian flags on a large tapestry hanging in an exhibition currently showing in Canberra have been covered with white fabric.

Sign up for Guardian Australia’s breaking news email