Thirty people were arrested and dozens of protesters sought medical assistance following clashes with police during a visit by Israeli President Isaac Herzog.
Protesters organized demonstrations against Herzog’s visit and accused police and security forces of excessive force, while officials in New South Wales defended the actions of law enforcement during the protest, which drew nearly 7,000 participants in central Sydney.
Violence broke out as the crowd attempted to march toward the state parliament. Police stated that some protesters tried to breach barriers, sparking physical confrontations.
Authorities added that measures were taken to prevent protesters from entering areas near the International Convention Centre, where a Jewish community gathering was being held to commemorate victims of the Bondi Beach terrorist attack that occurred during Hanukkah 2025, killing fifteen people.
At one point, police deployed tear gas to disperse the crowd.
“The circumstances were challenging for police trying to calm the situation,” said Chris Minns, Premier of New South Wales.
President Herzog is scheduled to visit multiple Australian cities in the coming days to show solidarity with the Australian Jewish community following last year’s deadly shooting.
