Israeli President’s Visit Confirmed, Anticipating Large-Scale Protests
Israeli President Isaac Herzog is set to visit Australia on February 8, 2026, for a five-day diplomatic mission. This visit occurs in the wake of high tensions surrounding Israel’s military actions and ongoing protests led by pro-Palestine activists.
Details of Herzog’s Visit
President Herzog will engage with senior Australian political figures and visit Jewish communities, particularly those affected by the Bondi Beach massacre. This attack resulted in 15 deaths during a Hanukkah celebration in December.
Delegation and Meetings
Herzog will be accompanied by prominent leaders, including:
- Yaakov Hagoel – Chair of the World Zionist Organisation
- Doron Almog – Chair of the Jewish Agency
Official meetings will take place with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and the governor-general, among others. Albanese extended the invitation following the tragic events in Bondi, aiming to provide support to the Jewish Australian community.
Protests and Opposition
Herzog’s visit has sparked opposition from pro-Palestine groups in Sydney and Melbourne. Activists are planning protests to denounce Israel’s actions in Gaza and its settlement policies in the West Bank.
Responses from Advocacy Groups
Labor Friends of Palestine and the Australian Centre for International Justice have called for a war crimes investigation against Herzog during his visit. They argue the invitation is a moral failure that disregards ongoing concerns about Israel’s military conduct.
Concerns from Jewish Organizations
Progressive community members have echoed sentiments that Herzog’s visit could exacerbate social divides. Sarah Schwartz, from the Jewish Council of Australia, criticized the invitation, suggesting it exploits Jewish grief for political gain.
Legal and Political Context
The International Court of Justice referred to Herzog’s statements when evaluating Palestinian rights under the Genocide Convention. However, Herzog contends his comments have been misconstrued, insisting that he opposes the killing of innocent civilians.
Defending Herzog’s Role
Supporters of Herzog, including Mike Kelly from Labor Friends of Israel, dismiss calls for an investigation as unreasonable. They argue these actions contribute to ongoing delegitimization efforts against Israel.
Conclusion
As President Herzog prepares for his visit, tensions surrounding Israeli policies remain high, with protests anticipated. The implications of this visit extend beyond diplomacy, affecting community relations and international perceptions of Israel’s actions.
