## Israeli President Herzog’s Australian Visit Ignites Protests and Debate
Israeli President Isaac Herzog’s recent visit to Australia has been met with a complex mix of emotions and significant protest, stemming from allegations of inciting genocide in Gaza. The visit, which included a wreath-laying ceremony and stone placement at Bondi Beach – the site of a December shooting targeting a Jewish festival – aimed to offer solace to a grieving community. However, it has simultaneously sparked widespread demonstrations and legal challenges.
**A Visit Rooted in Tragedy and Controversy**
The trip began with a poignant tribute to the victims of the Bondi Beach shooting, where 15 people, including a 10-year-old girl, lost their lives during a Hanukkah celebration. President Herzog stated, “When one Jew is hurt, all Jews feel their pain,” emphasizing his commitment to supporting the bereaved families. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese invited Herzog following the attack, hoping to foster social cohesion and unity.
However, the invitation has been heavily criticized by groups who accuse Herzog of inciting genocide in Gaza. A UN commission last year concluded that Herzog, along with other Israeli leaders, had made statements that could be interpreted as inciting genocide. These accusations center around comments made following the October 7th Hamas attack on Israel, including a statement that “it’s an entire nation out there that is responsible.” Herzog has vehemently denied these claims, stating his words were taken out of context.
**Protests and Legal Battles**
Nationwide protests are expected throughout Herzog’s visit, with organizers anticipating 5,000 attendees at a demonstration in central Sydney. The Palestine Action Group attempted to challenge the New South Wales government’s invocation of “major event” powers, which grant police increased authority during the visit, including the ability to close locations, search individuals, and issue fines up to $5,500. However, their legal challenge was unsuccessful.
During the visit, police have already intervened, issuing a “move on” direction to a man who yelled “shame” at Herzog and arresting another for abusive behavior on public transport.
**Divided Opinions Within the Australian Jewish Community**
The Australian Jewish community is deeply divided over Herzog’s visit. Alex Ryvchin, co-chair of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, welcomed the visit, stating it would “lift the spirits of a pained community.” However, the Jewish Council of Australia (JCA), established in 2024 to address antisemitism and support Palestinian freedom, argues that inviting Herzog is “deeply offensive” and risks conflating Jewish identity with the actions of the Israeli state. A letter signed by 600 Australian Jews published in the Sydney Morning Herald and the Age echoed this sentiment, stating that Herzog “does not speak for us and is not welcome here.”
**Political Fallout and International Relations**
The visit also highlights strained relations between Australia and Israel. Last year, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused Australia of “betraying Israel” after Prime Minister Albanese recognized Palestine as a state.
President Herzog, addressing the protests, stated they were an attempt to “undermine and delegitimise our right…of its mere existence.” He also emphasized the “current rise in antisemitism around the world is a global emergency,” adding, “Hatred that starts with the Jews never ends with the Jews.”
This visit underscores the complex and sensitive nature of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and its reverberations within the Australian community. It raises critical questions about the balance between supporting allies, addressing allegations of human rights violations, and protecting freedom of speech.
