Protests Erupt in Australia Over Israeli President Visit
Participants waved Palestinian flags and held placards criticizing Israel. The rally drew support from several politicians, including ACT Senator David Pocock and Greens leader Larissa Waters, as stated by local media.
Independent lawmaker Zali Steggall used the protest to press Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on what accountability measures Australia would pursue regarding the death of Australian aid worker Zomi Frankcom. Frankcom, who worked with the non-profit World Central Kitchen, was among several aid workers killed in Gaza during an Israeli airstrike in April 2024, an event that triggered widespread mourning and calls for justice in Australia.
Albanese confirmed that he raised the issue directly with Herzog during their meeting, alongside “a range of other government concerns.” He stressed that Canberra expects transparency from Israel as investigations continue, saying: “We continue to press for full accountability, including any appropriate criminal charges. We will continue working to ensure transparency and appropriate action.”
Demonstrations have persisted across Australia since Herzog arrived on a four-day visit on Monday. Earlier in the week, tensions escalated after confrontations between police and protesters. On Monday, thousands took to the streets, leading to clashes with law enforcement in multiple locations. Footage circulating widely on social media showed New South Wales (NSW) police forcibly removing Muslim worshippers and dragging them while they were performing prayers.
The incident drew condemnation nationwide, including from the Australian National Imams Council, which called the police actions “shocking, deeply disturbing, and entirely unacceptable.”
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