Sydney, New South Wales — Web Desk: Mass protests erupted across major Australian cities as Israeli President Isaac Herzog began a four-day visit to the country, with demonstrations in Sydney and Melbourne turning tense and violent amid strong pro-Palestinian sentiment.
According to international media reports, thousands of protesters took to the streets to oppose Herzog’s visit, which was intended to show solidarity with Australia’s Jewish community following a shooting incident at a Hanukkah celebration in Sydney’s Bondi Beach in December. However, the visit triggered widespread backlash from activists and human rights groups accusing Israel of civilian casualties in Gaza.
In Sydney’s central business district, large crowds gathered chanting pro-Palestinian slogans and delivering speeches condemning Israel’s military actions. Police deployed a heavy security presence, including mounted officers and helicopters, to maintain order. Authorities stated that tensions escalated when protesters attempted to push forward and breach police barriers, prompting law enforcement to use tear gas and pepper spray to disperse the crowd. Several demonstrators were detained during the clashes.
A spokesperson for the Palestine Action Group accused police of excessive force, claiming protesters were repeatedly pushed back with horses and pepper spray. The New South Wales state government had earlier granted police expanded powers to manage potential unrest during the high-profile visit.
Meanwhile, similar protests took place in Melbourne, where thousands demanded an end to Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories. Demonstrators called for global accountability and voiced strong criticism of Israeli leadership, including Herzog.
Despite the protests, President Herzog attended an event at a separate location, where he paid tribute to the victims of the Bondi Beach shooting. His visit has been controversial, with previous United Nations investigative commissions criticizing some of his past statements related to the Gaza conflict.
The protests have fueled global debate on Middle East tensions, freedom of expression, and the balance between security and civil rights during political visits. Authorities continue to monitor the situation as demonstrations persist across Australia.
