Demonstrators supporting Palestinians turned out in force across cities like Sydney, where clashes prompted police to use non-lethal force including tear gas. Several protesters were detained as authorities maintained order during the high-profile visit.

This trip came in the wake of a deadly December attack on a Hanukkah celebration at Sydney’s Bondi Beach, where terrorists gunned down 15 innocent attendees. Herzog’s presence was a gesture of unity and support for the traumatized Jewish community.

Quoting from his office’s statement, the president expressed bewilderment: ‘It’s baffling that the leader of the sole Jewish nation faces such hurdles just to be welcomed here. Proud Jewish assemblies should be a natural right, not a fortified event.’

Turning to the crowds outside, he challenged them: ‘Protest at the Iranian embassy instead—they’ve slaughtered their own and waged propaganda wars against us.’ Herzog boosted morale among Australian Jews, advising them to embrace their identity boldly: ‘Keep your Jewish hearts on your sleeves and flaunt your Zionism with pride.’

He noted constructive dialogues with Aussie officials, calling them committed allies against ‘cheap statements, fake news, and Jew-haters.’ Herzog’s tour, though disrupted, reinforced bonds and highlighted global antisemitism’s reach.