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Protests Erupt Across Australia During Israeli President Herzog’s Visit
Thousands protest in Australian cities against Israeli President Herzog’s visit, denouncing Gaza massacres. Clashes with police reported in Sydney.
ND
by News Desk
2026-02-09
Protests Erupt Across Australia During Israeli President Herzog’s Visit

Protests erupted across Australia on Monday as Israeli President Isaac Herzog arrived in the country at the invitation of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. The visit aims to express solidarity with Australia’s Jewish community following the Hanukkah party shooting in Bondi Beach last December.

Thousands of demonstrators, organized by pro-Palestinian groups and human rights organizations, took to the streets in multiple cities, including Sydney, voicing anger over the ongoing civilian killings in Gaza.

In Sydney, tensions escalated into violent clashes with police. Authorities deployed helicopters, mounted units, and used pepper spray and tear gas to control crowds. Several protesters were detained as a result.

Ahead of the visit, Australian authorities invoked special powers to restrict access to certain areas, order evacuations, and conduct vehicle searches. A pro-Palestinian group challenged these measures in court, but the Sydney court rejected the application on Monday.

Meanwhile, a memorial prayer ceremony was held at a distance from the protests in memory of the 15 victims killed in the Bondi Beach Hanukkah shooting on December 14 last year. The ceremony was attended by members of the Jewish community, government officials, opposition leaders, and President Herzog.

The protests highlight the growing public concern in Australia over Gaza, coinciding with a visit aimed at strengthening ties with the Jewish community in the wake of domestic tragedies.
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Australia

Israel

Palestine

Gaza

Protests

Sydney

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