Sydney Protest Sparks Calm Call from Leaders

The protest that turned violent in Sydney on the night of President Isaac Herzog’s visit left the city tense and police with a heavy workload.

Police Action

• 27 people were taken into custody, 10 charged with assaulting officers.
• Officers moved in to clear pedestrian traffic after demonstrators refused to leave the designated area.
• No serious injuries were reported.

Political Reactions

• Prime Minister Anthony Albanese:
• Expressed deep disappointment.
• Urged protesters to express concerns without violence, emphasizing Australians desire peace at home.
• Stated such scenes weaken the causes people fight for.
• New South Wales Premier Chris Minns:
• Defended police decisions, noting the need for swift action in a volatile situation.
• Called for public calm and explained police were protecting both the crowd and the broader community.

Protest Context

• Thousands gathered in central Sydney to oppose Herzog’s trip, following a tragic shooting at a Jewish event on Bondi Beach that killed 15.
• Police powers rarely used were invoked: directing crowds, restricting entry, and conducting vehicle searches.
• A court later dismissed a legal challenge to these measures.

On the Ground

• Video footage captured officers pushing back protesters who tried to break blockades.
• Some participants were on the ground while police attempted restraint.
• To disperse the crowd, officers deployed tear gas and pepper spray.

Criticism & Defense

• Palestine Action Group Sydney:
• Criticized police response as chaotic and unfair.
• Claimed officers surrounded protesters, used indiscriminate pepper spray, and arrested individuals without due cause.
• Assistant Commissioner Peter McKenna:
• Countered that police conduct was justified.
• Noted officers were outnumbered and faced violent behavior from some participants, yet restraint was exercised.
• Emphasized the precarious nature of the situation.