Israeli President's Visit Sparks Protests and Legal Challenge

Israeli President Isaac Herzog has arrived in Australia for an official visit that is already drawing widespread protests and legal challenges over police powers in Sydney.

The visit, which begins in Sydney on Monday, follows an invitation from the Albanese government after the December Bondi attack on a Jewish Hanukkah celebration that killed 15 people. Mr Herzog will meet political leaders and Jewish community representatives, some of whom say his presence offers comfort to a grieving community.

However, protesters have called for investigations into alleged Israeli war crimes and oppose his visit. While Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces an International Criminal Court arrest warrant, Mr Herzog does not and is protected by diplomatic immunity as a visiting head of state.

NSW Premier Chris Minns has declared the visit a "major event", granting police expanded powers to restrict movement in Sydney's CBD. Palestine Action Group is challenging the decision in the NSW Supreme Court, arguing the measures unlawfully limit the right to protest. A court ruling is expected just hours before a planned rally.

Police have warned demonstrators they risk arrest if they breach public assembly restrictions.

The visit has divided Australia's Jewish community, with some welcoming Mr Herzog and others condemning the trip, saying it legitimises rhetoric they believe has contributed to violence in Gaza.