09.02.2026 21:00
Following the attack that led to the death of 15 people at Bondi Beach on December 14 last year, Israeli President, who made an official visit to Australia at the invitation of Anthony Albanese, faced protests from thousands of people. Protesters gathered in major cities chanted pro-Palestinian slogans, holding Herzog responsible for the civilian deaths in Gaza.
The official visit of Israeli President Isaac Herzog to Australia was met with protest demonstrations across the country. According to reports in the Australian press, thousands of people protested Herzog's visit in many cities, especially in Sydney and Melbourne.
PROTESTS CONCENTRATED IN MAJOR CITIES
Local media outlets reported that the protests were particularly concentrated in Sydney and Melbourne. Demonstrators carried banners and slogans expressing solidarity with the Palestinian people while reacting to Israel's policies in Gaza and the West Bank. Some protests called for the cancellation of Herzog's visit.
SECURITY MEASURES INCREASED
Security measures were heightened during Herzog's visit. The Australian press reported that the police presence was increased in designated security areas, particularly in Sydney, and that protests were restricted in some areas. Police officials stated that the measures were implemented to ensure public safety.
POLICE INTERVENED, MANY ARRESTS MADE
Tensions arose between protesters and police during some demonstrations. According to local news sources, police intervened to disperse the crowd, and some protesters were arrested. Human rights advocates and civil society organizations argued that the interventions were concerning in terms of protest and freedom of expression.
Herzog's visit took place at the invitation of Anthony Albanese following the attack that resulted in the deaths of 15 people at Bondi Beach on December 14.
However, the visit brought discussions about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict back to the forefront. Commentaries in the Australian media stated that the visit deepened divisions among different segments of society.
GOVERNMENT STATEMENT
The Australian government stated that the visit had a diplomatic nature, emphasizing respect for the right to protest, but also noted that public order and safety were a priority.