Protests in Sydney brought thousands to the streets February 8, 2026, as demonstrators gathered during the official visit of Israeli President Isaac Herzog. The demonstrations highlighted ongoing tensions surrounding the Israel-Gaza conflict.

Protest Details

Approximately 5,000 protesters assembled at Hyde Park before marching to the Sydney Opera House. Demonstrators called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and criticized Herzog's visit. The protest remained mostly peaceful with police reporting three arrests for minor offenses. Counter-protesters held a smaller rally nearby supporting Israel.

Presidential Visit Context

Herzog arrived in Sydney February 7 for a three-day official visit. He met with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Governor-General David Hurley. The visit marks the first by an Israeli president to Australia since 2005. Security was heightened throughout the Sydney metropolitan area.

Protester Demands

Organizers demanded Australia sever diplomatic ties with Israel. Protesters called for an end to Australian military cooperation with Israel. Many carried signs reading Stop the Genocide and Free Palestine. Speakers criticized the Australian government's stance on the conflict.

Official Response

Prime Minister Albanese defended Herzog's visit as part of normal diplomatic relations. NSW Premier Chris Minns thanked police for managing the demonstrations. Israeli embassy officials expressed concern about protest rhetoric. The opposition criticized Albanese for timing the visit during ongoing conflict.

Security Measures

NSW Police deployed 800 officers to manage the protests. Barricades separated pro-Palestinian and pro-Israel demonstrators. Several roads around the Opera House were closed. Trains bypassed Circular Quay station for two hours.