Protests across Australia intensify for a fourth day against Israeli President Isaac Herzog’s visit, with clashes and widespread condemnation of police actions.

MELBOURNE: Mass protests continued across Australia for a fourth day on Thursday against the visit of Israeli President Isaac Herzog.

Hundreds of demonstrators gathered in Melbourne following his arrival in the city ahead of the conclusion of his trip.

The protest began outside Flinders Street Station, drawing crowds carrying signs declaring that Herzog was not welcome.

One woman said she joined the demonstration to demand accountability for family members killed in the conflict.

Another said she wanted to send a message to the government opposing Herzog’s visit.

The rally followed earlier protests outside two of Herzog’s official engagements, despite his itinerary not being made public.

Herzog’s trip has triggered large demonstrations across several major Australian cities, including Sydney.

Earlier protests in Sydney resulted in violent clashes between demonstrators and police.

On Wednesday, hundreds of protesters also gathered outside Parliament House to oppose the visit.

Protests have continued nationwide since Herzog arrived on a four-day visit on Monday.

Tensions escalated after clashes between police and demonstrators earlier in the week.

Thousands took to the streets on Monday, leading to confrontations with police in several locations.

Footage widely circulated on social media showed New South Wales Police forcibly removing Muslim worshippers.

They were dragged while performing prayers during one protest.

The incident drew widespread condemnation, including from the Australian National Imams Council.

The council described the police actions as “shocking, deeply disturbing and entirely unacceptable”.

Australia’s special envoy for Islamophobia, Aftab Malik, called for an investigation into the use of force.

He urged Chris Minns, the Premier of New South Wales, to issue a public apology to the Muslim community.

Last year, a United Nations Human Rights Council special commission of inquiry cited statements by Herzog.

It said Israel was committing genocide and cited his statements as evidence of genocidal intent.

Israel launched its military offensive in Gaza in October 2023.

More than 72,000 Palestinians have been killed and over 171,000 wounded, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry.

About 90% of Gaza’s infrastructure has been destroyed.

 The Sun Malaysia