Israeli President Herzog visits Australia to honor victims of Bondi Attack

Monday 09 February 2026 - 12:00

By: Sahili Aya

Israeli President Herzog visits Australia to honor victims of Bondi Attack

Israeli President Isaac Herzog began a four-day visit to Australia on Monday, paying tribute to the victims of the December 14, 2025, Bondi Beach attack and expressing solidarity with the Jewish community. Herzog vowed that antisemitism would ultimately be defeated, emphasizing the importance of unity across all faiths and nations in the face of terror.

The visit is taking place under tight security amid demonstrations organized by pro-Palestinian activists. Authorities in Sydney urged calm and deployed a significant security presence to ensure safety during Herzog’s engagements, which include visits to victims’ families and ceremonies honoring the deceased.

The Bondi attack, which claimed 15 lives, was carried out by two men inspired by jihadist ideology. One assailant was killed by police, while the other faces charges of terrorism and murder. Among the victims were a Holocaust survivor, a young child, and a couple who attempted to intervene.

The visit has also sparked debate within Australia. Some members of the Jewish community welcomed Herzog, while others criticized his presence, citing ongoing violence in Gaza. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called for national unity and reaffirmed the protection of innocent lives, regardless of nationality, during the visit.