Melbourne’s Protest Plans for Israel’s President

A group of students will gather this Thursday in a bustling train station to voice their opposition to what they perceive as violence in Gaza. The event coincides with the final day of Israeli President Isaac Herzog’s visit to Australia.

Context

• Herzog was invited by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese after a deadly shooting at a Hanukkah party in Sydney.
• Some Australians allege Herzog’s involvement in the deaths of civilians in Gaza, citing a UN report that claims Israel committed genocide there.
• The protest organizers stand for those harmed and still suffering, rallying under the slogan:
  “Now is the time to march.”

Controversial Campus Incident

• On a Melbourne university campus, students spray‑painted slogans calling for Herzog’s death.
• Police are treating the graffiti seriously but cannot yet link it to the planned protest.

Recent Clashes

• During Herzog’s trip, police and protesters clashed in Sydney.
• Twenty‑seven people were arrested when the confrontation turned violent.
• Police employed tear gas and pepper spray to disperse the crowd.

Herzog’s Statements

In a televised interview, Herzog described Australia’s antisemitism as “frightening.” He emphasized that most Australians desire peace and dialogue with Israel, while denying accusations of aiding Gaza’s genocide.