Sydney: Australian authorities are on high alert as pro Palestine groups prepare to stage protests during the visit of Israeli President Isaac Herzog to Australia.
Herzog arrived in Sydney over the weekend as part of a four day visit that also includes stops in Melbourne and Canberra. His trip is described by Australian and Israeli officials as a gesture of solidarity with the Jewish community following the deadly Bondi Beach attack last December.
Soon after his arrival Herzog visited the Bondi memorial site, where he paid tribute to the victims and warned that rising antisemitism has become a global concern. He called for unity and said democratic societies must stand firm against hatred and violence.
At the same time pro Palestine groups have announced demonstrations opposing his visit. Organisers say they see Herzog as a symbol of Israel’s actions in Gaza and argue that his presence in Australia ignores the suffering of Palestinians. A large march has been planned in central Sydney, with smaller rallies expected in other cities.
The planned protests have triggered a legal and political standoff. Police in New South Wales declared parts of Sydney a major event zone, giving officers expanded powers to control crowds and restrict movement. Authorities say the measures are needed to prevent clashes and ensure public safety during an already tense period.
Protest organisers have challenged the police decision in court, arguing that the restrictions amount to an unfair limit on the right to peaceful protest. A court ruling on whether the demonstrations can go ahead as planned is expected shortly.
Security has been significantly tightened across the city, with thousands of police officers deployed around key locations. Officials have said peaceful protest will be allowed but warned that any violence or hate speech will not be tolerated.
Herzog’s visit has exposed deep divisions within Australian society. While many community leaders have welcomed his presence as a show of support after the Bondi attack, others say the visit risks inflaming tensions and silencing criticism of Israel.
As protests loom and legal decisions near, Sydney is bracing for a day that will test the balance between public safety, free expression and social cohesion.