Israeli President Isaac Herzog Urges Australian Protesters to Direct Anger Toward Iran
During Australia visit, Herzog defends Israel’s democratic mandate and calls on demonstrators to focus on Tehran’s regional role
Israeli President Isaac Herzog has urged Australian protesters to redirect their anger toward Iran, arguing that Tehran’s actions and influence across the Middle East lie at the heart of regional instability rather than Israel’s defensive measures.
Speaking during his official visit to Australia, Herzog addressed demonstrations that accompanied his tour and defended Israel’s conduct amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza, framing it as a necessary response to sustained security threats.
Large protests took place in Melbourne and other cities during the president’s visit, with demonstrators criticising Israel’s military operations.
Addressing the unrest, Herzog emphasised that Israel is confronting forces he described as backed and armed by Iran, including groups operating in Gaza and elsewhere in the region.
He argued that public outrage should be focused on what he characterised as Tehran’s sponsorship of militant actors and its broader ambitions, rather than on Israel’s efforts to protect its citizens.
Herzog’s visit to Australia included meetings with federal and state leaders, as well as engagements with community representatives.
He reiterated Israel’s identity as a democratic state facing complex security challenges, and underscored the importance of strong bilateral ties between Canberra and Jerusalem.
Australian authorities maintained heightened security during public events, although demonstrations were largely peaceful.
The president’s remarks come at a time of heightened diplomatic tension globally over the Gaza conflict.
Israel maintains that its operations are directed at dismantling militant infrastructure and preventing further attacks, while critics have voiced concern about humanitarian consequences.
Herzog, however, stressed that Israel’s actions are rooted in its sovereign right to self-defence and warned that failing to address Iran’s regional activities would prolong instability.
His comments have added a sharper geopolitical dimension to public debate in Australia, shifting focus from bilateral relations to the broader strategic contest shaping the Middle East.
Speaking during his official visit to Australia, Herzog addressed demonstrations that accompanied his tour and defended Israel’s conduct amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza, framing it as a necessary response to sustained security threats.
Large protests took place in Melbourne and other cities during the president’s visit, with demonstrators criticising Israel’s military operations.
Addressing the unrest, Herzog emphasised that Israel is confronting forces he described as backed and armed by Iran, including groups operating in Gaza and elsewhere in the region.
He argued that public outrage should be focused on what he characterised as Tehran’s sponsorship of militant actors and its broader ambitions, rather than on Israel’s efforts to protect its citizens.
Herzog’s visit to Australia included meetings with federal and state leaders, as well as engagements with community representatives.
He reiterated Israel’s identity as a democratic state facing complex security challenges, and underscored the importance of strong bilateral ties between Canberra and Jerusalem.
Australian authorities maintained heightened security during public events, although demonstrations were largely peaceful.
The president’s remarks come at a time of heightened diplomatic tension globally over the Gaza conflict.
Israel maintains that its operations are directed at dismantling militant infrastructure and preventing further attacks, while critics have voiced concern about humanitarian consequences.
Herzog, however, stressed that Israel’s actions are rooted in its sovereign right to self-defence and warned that failing to address Iran’s regional activities would prolong instability.
His comments have added a sharper geopolitical dimension to public debate in Australia, shifting focus from bilateral relations to the broader strategic contest shaping the Middle East.
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