0
0
Australian national and state leaders have urged restraint after violent clashes broke out between police and protesters in central Sydney during the visit of Israeli President Isaac Herzog.
The unrest occurred on Monday evening outside Sydney Town Hall, where thousands gathered to protest Herzog’s presence in Australia. The demonstration escalated as some protesters attempted to move toward the New South Wales Parliament, despite restrictions on approved protest areas.
Clashes Lead to Arrests and Police Injuries
New South Wales Police said about 6,000 people attended the rally, although organizers disputed the figure. Officers intervened when sections of the crowd pushed beyond agreed boundaries. Police used pepper spray and physical force to disperse protesters.
Authorities confirmed 27 arrests were made, including 10 people charged with allegedly assaulting police officers. Ten officers sustained injuries during the confrontation. Police reported no serious injuries among protesters or members of the public.
Video footage shared online showed intense scenes, including scuffles between police and demonstrators and officers breaking up a group prayer. Some protesters, including a state parliament member, accused police of using excessive force. Police leadership rejected those claims, stating officers acted with restraint while facing threats and assaults.
Leaders Defend Police and Urge De escalation
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the violence as deeply concerning and called on all sides to lower tensions. He said protests should remain peaceful and warned that violence weakens legitimate causes.
NSW Premier Chris Minns defended the police response, saying officers were placed in an extremely difficult situation. He emphasized that authorities had negotiated extensively to allow a lawful protest at an alternative location and urged the public to consider the broader context beyond short video clips.
NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon praised officers, saying they were significantly outnumbered and faced aggressive behavior during the event.
Context of Herzog Visit and Nationwide Protests
President Isaac Herzog’s visit is linked to expressions of solidarity with Australia’s Jewish community following a deadly attack at a Hanukkah event in Bondi in December 2025 that left 15 people dead.
While protests related to the Israel Gaza conflict took place in other cities, including Melbourne, Brisbane, and Canberra, Sydney saw the most serious unrest. Herzog’s visit continues until February 12 and includes memorial events for the Bondi attack victims.
The incident has underscored ongoing divisions in Australia over Middle East tensions, with leaders reiterating calls for peaceful protest and public safety.
