Protests Across Australia as Israeli President Visits

Many people are protesting in Australia while the President of Israel, Isaac Herzog, is visiting. The protests are happening because of the war in Gaza. Organizers say they are unhappy with actions in Gaza and have made serious claims about the President.
By Newsroom | World News, Australia |

Tensions rise across Australia as thousands demonstrate against the state visit of Israeli President Isaac Herzog. The demonstrations, fueled by ongoing conflict in Gaza and allegations of inciting genocide, highlight a deep divide and raise questions about protest rights and security measures.

Context of the Visit and Demonstrations

Israeli President Isaac Herzog's five-day visit to Australia, beginning February 8, 2026, has triggered widespread protests across major cities. The visit, extended to include Sydney and Melbourne, has seen rallies involving thousands of demonstrators. These actions are organized by pro-Palestine groups who view the visit as a deliberate provocation, particularly in the wake of the Bondi Beach terror attack late last year.

  • Protesters plan to march in at least 24 cities nationwide.

  • Demonstrations are framed by organizers as a response to alleged actions by the Israeli government in Gaza.

  • Specific grievances include accusations of bombing schools and hospitals, and the killing of journalists.

The protests are occurring under a backdrop of heightened security and specific police powers granted during the President's visit.

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  • In Victoria, police possess "move-on" powers in designated areas, though these are not applicable during authorized protests. However, these powers can be used if protesters obstruct traffic or pedestrians.

  • New South Wales Police have been granted special, extraordinary powers to manage crowds and establish exclusion zones.

  • Questions have been raised regarding the rights of protesters and the extent to which these powers might limit lawful assembly.

Core Grievances and Allegations

The demonstrations are directly linked to the ongoing war in Gaza and prior international inquiries.

Perth demonstrators protest Israeli president’s visit - 1

  • Pro-Palestine activists cite the UN Human Rights Council's inquiry into Israel's conduct in Gaza.

  • This inquiry reportedly found that President Herzog had "incited the commission of genocide."

  • The Australian Centre for International Justice (ACIJ) has formally requested an investigation by the Australian Federal Police (AFP) into these allegations.

  • Organizers state they will carry images of victims and destroyed infrastructure from Gaza.

Security and Public Order Measures

Australian authorities have implemented extensive security protocols to manage the visit and anticipated protests.

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  • Extreme security measures have been deployed, including reports of rooftop snipers and thousands of police officers.

  • Road closures, diverted public transport, and vehicle removals have been observed in areas of central Sydney.

  • A 24-year-old protester was moved on by police for yelling at the President's motorcade, complying with orders.

International Context and Domestic Backlash

The protests in Australia mirror a broader international sentiment regarding Israel's actions in Gaza.

  • Reports indicate continued violations of ceasefire by Israeli forces, leading to further casualties.

  • The war in Gaza has resulted in significant Palestinian casualties and widespread destruction of infrastructure.

  • Activists argue that a leader facing allegations of inciting genocide should not be permitted entry without accountability.

Expert Analysis

The situation highlights a complex intersection of international relations, human rights concerns, and domestic legal frameworks governing protest. The activation of enhanced police powers during a period of planned civil unrest necessitates careful observation to ensure the balance between public safety and fundamental rights to assembly and expression.

Conclusion and Implications

The arrival of Israeli President Isaac Herzog in Australia has precipitated significant public demonstrations, reflecting deep-seated anger over the conflict in Gaza. Organizers have mobilized across multiple cities, articulating specific grievances tied to international findings and the perceived humanitarian cost of the war. Authorities have responded with stringent security measures and expanded police powers, raising pertinent questions about the scope and application of laws governing protest. The situation underscores the challenges of balancing international diplomatic engagements with domestic advocacy and the rights of citizens to voice dissent, particularly when those grievances are amplified by grave international allegations. The coming days will likely see continued public expression and a continued focus on the legal and security responses.

Sources

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why are people protesting in Australia?
People are protesting because of the war in Gaza and serious claims made against the Israeli President.
Q: Where are the protests happening?
Protests are planned in at least 24 cities across Australia, including Sydney and Melbourne.
Q: What are the main complaints?
Protesters are unhappy about the war in Gaza, including claims of harm to schools and hospitals. They also mention a UN report about the President.
Q: Are there many police?
Yes, there are very high security measures with many police officers to manage the visit and the protests.