The visit of Israeli President Isaac Herzog to Australia sparked significant protests across the country, particularly in Sydney and Melbourne. The visit was intended to provide reassurance to the Jewish community following a tragic incident at a Hanukkah celebration in Bondi Beach, where 15 people were killed. However, this goodwill visit was met with resistance and outcry from protestors advocating for the Palestinian cause, leading to clashes during demonstrations.

In Sydney, the atmosphere escalated dramatically as protesters confronted police, with reports of the latter employing pepper spray to disperse crowds. An AFP journalist reported at least 15 arrests as tensions flared between law enforcement and protestors. The Palestine Action Group emphasized the aggressive tactics used by police, including charges with horses and the deployment of pepper spray, highlighting the intensity of the conflict during the demonstration.

Meanwhile, protesters in Melbourne voiced their concerns against what they describe as Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories, emphasizing the broader context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The juxtaposition of Herzog's attempts to strengthen ties with the Australian Jewish community against the backdrop of a rising anti-Israel sentiment illustrated the deeply entrenched divisions surrounding this issue. The events reflect both local and global complexities related to Israel's policies and their implications for Palestinian rights and Australian public sentiment.