Israeli President Isaac Herzog laid a wreath and two stones from Jerusalem at Bondi Beach, the site of a shooting that targeted a Jewish festival in December, marking the start of a controversial visit to Australia. When one Jew is hurt, all Jews feel their pain, Herzog expressed, emphasizing his intention to ''embrace and console the bereaved families.
Tight security measures are in place for the president’s four-day visit, which includes travels to Canberra and Melbourne to meet Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Senior Jewish leaders view Herzog's presence as comfort to a grieving community. However, others have voiced objections, pointing to allegations of Herzog's incitement of genocide in Gaza as a basis for their opposition to his invitation.
The visit is expected to foster social cohesion post-Bondi attack, yet it is also anticipated to trigger nationwide protests. Organizers estimate a crowd of 5,000 for a demonstration scheduled in central Sydney, despite protests restrictions imposed by the New South Wales government after the tragic event, which claimed 15 lives, including a 10-year-old girl.
A letter signed by 600 Australian Jews, organized by the Jewish Council of Australia (JCA), condemning Herzog’s invitation, was published in prominent newspapers. Critics of Herzog emphasize that inviting a state leader accused of genocide is offensive and counterproductive to Jewish safety. Some MPs are also expected to join the protests.
Amidst these tensions, Herzog highlighted the historical friendship between Australia and Israel and condemned global antisemitism as a major issue. Australian officials have acknowledged community sentiments surrounding the visit while also emphasizing the background of mourning due to the Bondi attack.
Tight security measures are in place for the president’s four-day visit, which includes travels to Canberra and Melbourne to meet Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Senior Jewish leaders view Herzog's presence as comfort to a grieving community. However, others have voiced objections, pointing to allegations of Herzog's incitement of genocide in Gaza as a basis for their opposition to his invitation.
The visit is expected to foster social cohesion post-Bondi attack, yet it is also anticipated to trigger nationwide protests. Organizers estimate a crowd of 5,000 for a demonstration scheduled in central Sydney, despite protests restrictions imposed by the New South Wales government after the tragic event, which claimed 15 lives, including a 10-year-old girl.
A letter signed by 600 Australian Jews, organized by the Jewish Council of Australia (JCA), condemning Herzog’s invitation, was published in prominent newspapers. Critics of Herzog emphasize that inviting a state leader accused of genocide is offensive and counterproductive to Jewish safety. Some MPs are also expected to join the protests.
Amidst these tensions, Herzog highlighted the historical friendship between Australia and Israel and condemned global antisemitism as a major issue. Australian officials have acknowledged community sentiments surrounding the visit while also emphasizing the background of mourning due to the Bondi attack.
