Israeli President Isaac Herzog began a four-day visit to Australia on Monday, commencing with a memorial at Bondi Beach for the 15 victims of the December 2025 shooting during a Hanukkah celebration. The visit is occurring amid widespread protests opposing Herzog’s presence, with demonstrators alleging he has incited genocide against Palestinians.
Herzog’s Visit and Protests
Thousands of protesters demonstrated in Sydney’s business district on Monday, and further protests are planned in cities and towns across the country. Authorities have designated an area around the New South Wales Parliament as protected, and demonstrators risk arrest if they proceed with a planned march. A Sydney court rejected a legal challenge to these restrictions filed by the Palestine Action Group.
Police deployed 3,000 personnel in Sydney, and Herzog is also scheduled to visit Melbourne and Canberra. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese urged respect for the “solemn nature” of Herzog’s visit, stating the president “came here in goodwill.”
Statements and Allegations
At Bondi Beach, Herzog laid a wreath and stated, “This was also an attack on all Australians.” He added that the attack targeted “the values that our democracies treasure – the sanctity of human life, the freedom of religion, tolerance, dignity and respect.” Herzog also expressed solidarity, friendship, and love to those affected.
Herzog alleged the protests were an attempt to “undermine and delegitimise” Israel’s right to exist. Activists, including Amnesty International’s Australia chapter, countered that Herzog should not be welcomed as an official guest given a United Nations commission of inquiry’s finding that he “incited the commission of genocide” against Palestinians.
Background on the UN Inquiry
The UN’s Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory made its finding in September, relating to Herzog’s statements following the October 7, 2023, attacks by Hamas. Since those attacks, Israel’s actions in Gaza have resulted in more than 72,000 Palestinian deaths, with tens of thousands of bodies remaining uncounted. Even after a U.S.-brokered “ceasefire” in October, Israel has killed over 500 Palestinians and continues to restrict aid access to Gaza.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted Isaac Herzog’s visit to Australia?
Isaac Herzog visited Australia to commemorate the victims of the December 2025 mass shooting at Bondi Beach and to express solidarity with the Australian Jewish community.
What is the nature of the protests occurring during Herzog’s visit?
Protests are occurring across Australia, organized by groups opposing Herzog’s visit due to allegations that he has incited genocide against Palestinians.
What was the outcome of the legal challenge to the protest restrictions?
A Sydney court rejected a legal challenge filed by the Palestine Action Group against restrictions placed on a planned protest march.
How will the ongoing tensions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict influence future diplomatic visits and international relations?
