Israeli President Isaac Herzog’s state visit to Australia has become a defining moment in bilateral relations, marked by his call for a “new beginning” in ties with Canberra even as widespread protests persist across major cities.

Herzog, visiting at the invitation of the Australian government to convey solidarity with the Jewish community following the Bondi Beach terror attack in December, met with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and other senior officials in Canberra, where he framed the visit as both emotional and forward-looking.

He emphasised that relations between Israel and Australia should be built on a broader foundation that goes beyond the decades-long Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Herzog’s remarks came amid continuing demonstrations in Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra and other cities, where pro-Palestinian activists and other opponents of the visit have taken to the streets denouncing Israel’s military actions in Gaza and calling for accountability.

Security forces, particularly in New South Wales, have been granted enhanced powers under “major event” legislation to manage public order, a move upheld by the Supreme Court despite legal challenges from protest organisers who argued the measures were overly broad.

Police have clashed with demonstrators, issuing move-on orders and making arrests in Sydney’s central business district as planned marches ran up against protest restrictions.

Prime Minister Albanese reiterated his support for Herzog’s visit as an opportunity to offer comfort to the Jewish community and to foster dialogue, including raising the 2024 death of Australian aid worker Zomi Frankcom in Gaza during his discussions with the Israeli president.

Albanese also urged protesters to respect the visit’s solemn aspects while acknowledging the right to lawful dissent.

Several federal politicians joined peaceful rallies outside Parliament House in Canberra, where some members of parliament chose not to attend proceedings in protest of Herzog’s presence.

The visit’s itinerary has included tribute events at Bondi Beach and high-level meetings in the capital, but plans such as a Melbourne synagogue tour were adjusted due to security concerns.

Protests have drawn diverse crowds, with organisers and participants arguing their demonstrations represent legitimate expression against the broader geopolitical implications of Israel’s policies.

Herzog’s appeal for a fresh, broadened partnership reflects an effort by both governments to navigate domestic sensitivities and advance constructive engagement on issues affecting their respective societies.

With further events scheduled and demonstrations expected to continue during Herzog’s remaining days in Australia, the state visit underscores the complex interplay between foreign diplomacy and domestic public sentiment.