**
A wave of protests swept through major cities in Australia on Monday, coinciding with the start of Israeli President Isaac Herzog’s four-day visit. Demonstrators voiced their opposition to Herzog’s presence, citing concerns over his government’s policies and actions in relation to Palestine. The protests turned confrontational in Sydney, where police resorted to using pepper spray against demonstrators.
Tensions Rise in Sydney
In the heart of Sydney, thousands gathered near Town Hall, where political figures such as Greens senator Mehreen Faruqi and former Australian of the Year Grace Tame delivered impassioned speeches to the crowd. The protest, which unfolded amidst a backdrop of heightened police powers, saw a clash between demonstrators and authorities shortly after it began. Despite attempts to negotiate a peaceful march, the police invoked strict regulations enacted following the Bondi terror attack, effectively prohibiting the demonstration from proceeding as planned.
As tensions escalated, the atmosphere grew increasingly charged. Protesters chanted slogans and drummed in unison, demanding the right to march. Their calls were met with a swift response from the police, who deployed pepper spray into the crowd, causing panic and distress. Protesters rushed away from the front lines, struggling to wash away the irritant from their eyes as the rally descended into chaos.
Melbourne’s Rally and Calls for Solidarity
Across the country in Melbourne, a similar scene unfolded as thousands gathered to express their dissent. Senator Lidia Thorpe took to the stage, addressing attendees with a powerful message of solidarity. “I stand against violence of all forms, particularly genocide. I stand in solidarity with the victims in Bondi,” she asserted, emphasising her support for Palestinian rights alongside those affected by recent violence in Australia.
This wave of protests was not merely a response to Herzog’s visit; it also drew upon broader sentiments regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The recent UN commission findings, which described actions by Herzog, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and then Defence Minister Yoav Gallant as incitements to genocide, have intensified calls for accountability. These allegations prompted some activists to demand Herzog’s arrest during his stay in Australia.
Herzog’s Response and the Context of His Visit
The visit was initiated by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in the wake of the antisemitic shooting incident in Bondi on 14 December, which aimed to foster unity within the nation. In the face of the protests, Herzog addressed the media, articulating his intention to come “in goodwill.” He expressed concern that the demonstrations aimed to undermine the legitimacy of Israel’s existence, framing the protests as detrimental to dialogue and understanding.
Herzog also faced scrutiny over his previous statements, including a controversial remark that suggested collective responsibility among a nation following attacks on Israel. His rhetoric has led to significant pushback from protestors and human rights advocates, who argue that such characterisations contribute to ongoing violence and discrimination.
Why it Matters
The protests against Herzog’s visit reflect a growing discontent within Australia regarding its stance on international issues, particularly concerning Israel and Palestine. As voices of dissent resonate louder in the streets, they highlight the complexities of national identity, human rights, and the quest for justice in a global context. This moment underscores the importance of dialogue and the need for greater awareness and empathy as Australia navigates its role on the world stage. The actions of both protestors and officials during this visit will likely have lasting implications for how Australia engages with such contentious global issues in the future.
