Sydney police clash with protesters at anti‑Herzog rally

Sydney police clash with protesters at anti-Herzog rally

On February 9, 2026, New South Wales police confronted demonstrators in Sydney who were protesting the visit of Israeli President Isaac Herzog. The protest near Town Hall was initially organised by the Palestine Action Group and described by organisers as a peaceful rally. Police enforced Public Assembly restrictions and limited the movement of the crowd. Video footage shows officers using pepper spray on protesters, punching restrained individuals, and charging participants in several areas.

Authorities reported that 27 people were arrested and nine were charged with various offences including assaulting police and resisting directions. Police stated officers had been threatened and jostled by some in the crowd. Multiple legal observers and journalists reported that most demonstrators did not engage in violence before the police response. Amnesty International Australia and other civil rights groups called for independent investigations into the police actions.

Several individuals were injured during the clashes. Police defended the actions of officers as necessary under the regulations, while critics cited concerns about civil liberties, freedom of peaceful assembly, and protections under international law.