Widespread Australian protests greet Israeli president Herzog's visit

2026-02-12 - 03:45

Israeli President Isaac Herzog's official visit to Australia has sparked significant public opposition, with hundreds of protesters converging on Parliament House in Canberra Wednesday carrying Palestinian flags and denouncing his presence. The demonstration included participation from Senator David Pocock and Greens parliamentarian Larissa Waters, reflecting growing political dissent over the invitation extended by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Nationwide Protest Movement The Canberra rally follows massive protests in Sydney where approximately 6,000 demonstrators gathered earlier this week, with dozens detained when attempting to march on the municipal building. Melbourne also witnessed dozens taking to the streets in protest. Australian civil society organizations representing Muslim, Christian, and Jewish communities had previously urged the government to rescind the invitation, citing concerns over Israel's military campaign in Gaza. Context of the Invitation Prime Minister Albanese extended the official invitation following a December 2025 attack targeting a Jewish holiday celebration at Sydney's Bondi Beach. While intended as a gesture of solidarity, the visit has instead galvanized pro-Palestinian sentiment across the country. The protests underscore deepening divisions within Australian society regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and challenge the government's diplomatic outreach.