Sydney, February 9 – Israeli President Isaac Herzog touched down in Sydney on Monday morning, kicking off a significant four-day visit to Australia. The trip comes in the wake of last December’s horrific terrorist attack at Bondi Beach, where 16 lives were lost during a Jewish festival celebration. Herzog’s presence is a powerful show of solidarity with Australia’s Jewish communities, shaken by the violence inspired by Islamic State ideology.
Speaking to reporters, Herzog emphasized his mission: to tour Jewish communities across the nation, offering unity and strength in the attack’s aftermath. Invited by Australia’s Governor-General and Prime Minister, he will join major community events alongside Jewish leaders and hold talks with senior politicians.
Yet, the visit is not without controversy. Protests are brewing over Israel’s policies toward Palestinians, with over 1,000 Australian Jews signing an open letter deeming Herzog unwelcome. Demonstrations are planned in Sydney, Canberra, and Melbourne, including a rally and march in Sydney’s city center this evening.
Security is airtight. New South Wales has deployed over 3,000 officers, with 500 specifically guarding the protests. The Bondi Beach massacre on December 14 last year – a mass shooting at a Hanukkah event – was officially labeled a terrorist act by authorities, underscoring the rising tide of antisemitism that Herzog aims to confront head-on.
As Herzog navigates this delicate balance of support and dissent, his tour highlights Australia’s complex stance on global conflicts and domestic harmony. The coming days will test the resilience of communities on all sides.