Israeli President Isaac Herzog’s visit to Australia this week, intended to offer solace to the Jewish community following the December 14th mass shooting on Bondi Beach that claimed 15 lives, has been met with protests in major cities.
Herzog’s Visit Sparks Demonstrations
Demonstrations occurred in Sydney, where police reportedly used pepper spray on protesters and members of the media, including an AFP photographer, during scuffles in the central business district on Monday night. Herzog described a “wave” of anti-Jewish hatred in Australia culminating in the Bondi Beach killings.
Herzog, speaking to Channel Seven’s Sunrise, acknowledged the situation as “frightening and worrying,” but likewise expressed belief in a “silent majority of Australians who seek peace, who respect the Jewish community and, of course, desire a dialogue with Israel.” He stated he brought a “message of goodwill to the people of Australia” and expressed hope for a more relaxed atmosphere.
After meeting with Victoria’s governor at Melbourne’s Government House, Herzog attended a Jewish community event. Protesters outside the event waved Palestinian flags and chanted slogans, with more demonstrations expected on Thursday at approximately 5 pm (0600 GMT).
Addressing the audience at the community event, Herzog stated, “We came here to be with you, to appear you in the eye, to embrace and remember.” He also suggested that demonstrators direct their protests toward the Iranian embassy.
Australia and Iran
The Australian government expelled Tehran’s ambassador last year, accusing Iran of orchestrating a wave of antisemitic attacks. Intelligence findings reportedly linked Iran to the torching of a kosher cafe in Sydney’s Bondi suburb in October 2024 and a major arson attack on the Adass Israel Synagogue in Melbourne in December 2024.
Controversy Surrounding the Visit
Prior to Herzog’s arrival, ABC reported graffiti reading “Death to Herzog” on a building at Melbourne University. While many Jewish Australians welcomed the visit, with Alex Ryvchin of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry stating it would “lift the spirits of a pained community,” others disagreed.
The progressive Jewish Council of Australia opposed the visit, citing Herzog’s alleged role in the “ongoing destruction of Gaza.” A UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry found last year that Herzog was liable for prosecution for inciting genocide following comments he made regarding Palestinian responsibility for the October 2023 Hamas attack on Israel. Israel has “categorically” rejected the inquiry’s report, calling it “distorted and false” and advocating for its abolition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the purpose of Isaac Herzog’s visit to Australia?
Herzog’s visit was intended to offer consolation to the Australian Jewish community following the mass shooting on Bondi Beach in December that killed 15 people.
Were there protests during Herzog’s visit?
Yes, demonstrations occurred in Sydney and Melbourne, with police using pepper spray on protesters in Sydney.
What has Australia accused Iran of?
Australia has accused Iran of orchestrating a wave of antisemitic attacks, including the torching of a kosher cafe in Sydney and an arson attack on a synagogue in Melbourne.
Given the strong reactions to President Herzog’s visit, what role will international diplomacy play in addressing both antisemitism and the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict?
