Israel President Herzog: Arrest Demand in Australia Over Bondi Shooting Visit

Canberra is facing mounting pressure to arrest Israeli President Isaac Herzog during his scheduled visit to Australia next week, following calls from a United Nations investigator who alleges Herzog has incited genocide in Gaza. The controversy centers on Herzog’s remarks following the October 7, 2023 attacks by Hamas on Israel, which a UN-backed commission claims constitute incitement.

The calls for Herzog’s arrest were made by Chris Sidoti, a member of the Independent International Commission of Inquiry established by the UN Human Rights Council to investigate alleged human rights violations in Israel and the Palestinian territories. Sidoti, a human rights lawyer, stated that Herzog “should be arrested if he comes” to Australia, according to reports from February 5, 2026.

Sidoti has also urged the Australian government to revoke its invitation to Herzog, describing Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s decision to invite the Israeli president as a “foolish mistake.” He argued that the invitation should be cancelled “before it’s too late.” Herzog is due to begin a four-day visit on February 9, intended to meet with the Australian Jewish community and offer support following the shooting at a synagogue in Bondi, Sydney, on December 14, 2025.

The shooting at Bondi, which left at least 15 people dead, prompted the invitation from Canberra. The attack occurred during a Hanukkah celebration and has been described as the worst anti-Semitic and terrorist attack in Australian history. Police have charged Naveed Akram with terrorism, 15 counts of murder, and other offenses, alleging the attack was inspired by ISIS.

The UN commission’s report, released in 2025, alleges that Herzog’s statements held responsibility for inciting genocide by attributing collective blame to the entire Palestinian population for the Hamas attacks. Israel has vehemently rejected the report, dismissing it as “distorted and false” and calling for the dissolution of the commission.

Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong has defended the invitation, stating that it was extended at the request of the Australian Jewish community. “President Herzog was invited to Australia to honour the victims of Bondi and to stand with and support the Australian Jewish community after the worst terrorist and antisemitic attack we have ever witnessed in this country,” Wong said.

Meanwhile, pro-Palestinian activists in Australia are planning protests against Herzog’s visit, including demonstrations in Sydney. The potential for unrest has prompted a security assessment, with the Australian Jewish Affairs Council (AJAC) Executive Manager Joel Burnie responding to potential protest and security risks.

The controversy highlights the deep divisions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the increasing scrutiny faced by international leaders perceived to be taking sides. The Australian government now faces a delicate balancing act between upholding its commitment to the Jewish community and addressing concerns about potential legal and political ramifications stemming from the UN commission’s allegations. The situation underscores the complex geopolitical challenges inherent in navigating the ongoing conflict and its international repercussions.

The Bondi shooting investigation revealed that the suspect, Naveed Akram, and his father, Sajid Akram, carried out the attack. Two ISIS flags were found in a vehicle registered to Naveed near the scene. Authorities have indicated the attack was a terrorist act inspired by the extremist group.