Pro-Palestinian organisations and legal advocates in Australia have intensified pressure on the federal government to take legal action against Israeli President Isaac Herzog in the lead-up to his official visit next month, urging authorities to arrest or investigate him for alleged involvement in war crimes and incitement to genocide.

The calls come as Herzog, who is expected to arrive in Australia on February 8 at the invitation of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, prepares for a five-day visit that will include meetings with Australian leaders, Jewish community representatives and families affected by the Bondi Beach terror attack.

A coalition of groups including the Australian Centre for International Justice, the Australian Federation of Islamic Councils, the Hind Rajab Foundation and several pro-Palestinian activist organisations have submitted formal requests to the Australian Federal Police and other officials to open a criminal investigation under domestic law.

They contend that comments made by Herzog during Israel’s military campaign in Gaza meet the elements of serious criminal conduct and should be addressed prior to his entry.

Independent legal advocates and Amnesty International’s Australian branch have reiterated calls for Australia to uphold its international obligations under the Genocide Convention by examining allegations of genocide and incitement.

Demonstrations are being planned nationwide during Herzog’s visit, with activists calling for a “national day of protest” and some insisting that if he sets foot in the country he should be subject to arrest.

The Albanese government, which extended the invitation to Herzog following the antisemitic attack in Bondi last December, has defended the visit as an expression of solidarity with Jewish Australians and a chance to strengthen community cohesion.

Mainstream Jewish organisations, including the Zionist Federation of Australia, have welcomed Herzog’s trip, saying it reassures those affected by rising antisemitism and recent violence.

At the same time, dissenting voices within the Jewish community and political parties have urged the government to reconsider its stance, citing concerns that the visit could inflame divisions.

Security preparations are being coordinated by federal and state authorities ahead of the expected high-profile tour, which has sparked significant public debate across Australia about human rights, international law and the role of diplomatic engagement in a charged geopolitical context.