**
Investigations are underway following a protest in Sydney against Israeli President Isaac Herzog that resulted in multiple injuries and raised serious concerns about police conduct. Among the most severely affected is a 69-year-old woman who suffered four broken vertebrae after an alleged violent encounter with police during the demonstration. As authorities review body camera and social media footage, questions arise about the management of protests and civil liberties in New South Wales.
Injured Protester Recalls Distressing Encounter
Jann Alhafny, currently recovering in hospital, described her harrowing experience during the protest, where she claims she was pushed to the ground by a police officer “very violently” and without warning. “I knew immediately that I’d hurt my back,” she shared from her hospital bed, detailing how she feared for her safety as others fell atop her. “I thought there could be a stampede or that I might suffocate,” she added.
Alhafny recounted that after being forcefully hauled to her feet, she was shoved by the officer. “I could barely walk,” she said, explaining how another protester assisted her to a nearby seat, where she then called for medical help. Despite her injuries, she expressed relief that surgery would not be required, although she faces a long recovery ahead. “I’m 69 years old. I don’t deserve this,” she lamented.
A Protest Marked by Tension
The protest, which drew thousands to Sydney’s town hall, was marred by incidents of violence as police employed pepper spray and formed barriers to control the crowd. This response was reportedly in violation of a government ban on marches in the area, which had been implemented following a recent terror attack. The legal framework established under the major events legislation grants police increased authority to disperse crowds and search individuals during significant events, effectively limiting the civil rights of protesters.
Labor MP Stephen Lawrence, who attended the protest, voiced concern over the implications of these restrictions. He warned that such measures could lead to further conflict, stating, “There will be no civil liability… all civil liability is extinguished.” This sentiment echoed throughout the protest community, which has been vocal about the need for transparency in police actions.
Calls for Accountability and Review
In the aftermath of the protest, Sydney’s Lord Mayor Clover Moore called for an independent inquiry into police conduct. She emphasised the necessity of trust between the community and law enforcement, stating, “We cannot simply say the images aren’t a good look… the community needs to be able to trust police, and that trust relies on transparency and accountability.” Moore highlighted the need for civil rights to be preserved even while addressing rising tensions related to antisemitism and Islamophobia.
Meanwhile, NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon defended the officers’ actions, asserting they were necessary to maintain public safety. Premier Chris Minns echoed this sentiment, urging the public to consider the broader context rather than isolated video clips when assessing the situation.
Adding to the controversy, Sheikh Wesam Charkawi, who led a prayer during the protest, described the police response as “unhinged and aggressive.” He recounted feeling extreme pain as he was pulled away while attempting to perform sunset prayers, asserting that his group was complying with police directions at the time.
Why it Matters
The unfolding events in Sydney have ignited a debate about the balance between public safety and civil liberties, particularly in the context of growing tensions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. As investigations continue, the implications of police conduct during protests will likely resonate far beyond this incident, shaping the future of free expression and the right to assemble in Australia. The community’s call for accountability serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of protecting civil rights, especially during times of heightened political sensitivity.
