Sydney, Australia – An investigation has been launched into the actions of New South Wales (NSW) police during a protest against the visit of Israeli President Isaac Herzog to Sydney on Monday, February 9th. The inquiry, announced Friday by the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC), follows numerous reports of alleged inappropriate conduct and excessive force used against demonstrators.
The protest took place near Sydney’s Town Hall, with thousands participating according to organizers, while police estimated the crowd size at 6,000. Demonstrators, largely affiliated with pro-Palestinian groups, voiced opposition to Herzog’s visit and the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Authorities had invoked enhanced powers under major event legislation and a court declaration to restrict certain gatherings in sensitive areas during the President’s stay.
NSW Police reported 27 arrests, with at least ten individuals facing charges related to alleged assault of officers. However, authorities stated there were no reports of serious injuries among police personnel. Footage circulating on social media depicts tense scenes, including the use of pepper spray and physical altercations as protesters attempted to move through the city center.
The visit by President Herzog was intended, in part, to express solidarity with the Australian Jewish community following an antisemitic attack in Bondi Beach in December 2025, which resulted in the deaths of 16 people, including one of the perpetrators. During his four-day trip, Herzog visited the Bondi Beach memorial and met with survivors and families affected by the attack.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and NSW Premier Chris Minns have publicly defended the police response, emphasizing the require to maintain public safety. However, civil liberties organizations and community leaders have called for an independent review and assurances regarding the protection of protest rights.
The LECC stated it will gather and review audiovisual material, relevant documents and witness statements. Public hearings will be held as part of the investigation, with the findings to be detailed in a publicly available report.
Separately, a 45-year-old man was charged with stalking President Herzog during his visit. Police allege the man repeatedly drove past a school in Bondi Junction, filming a security guard and using offensive language. He was also accused of filming President Herzog and using offensive language in Haymarket. The man has been granted conditional bail and is scheduled to appear in Waverley Local Court in March.
