Israeli President Isaac Herzog arrived in Sydney today, February 9, 2026, to begin a multi-city tour of Australia. The trip is intended to express solidarity with Australia’s Jewish community following a tragic shooting at a Hanukkah event in December that claimed 15 lives. Herzog’s visit began at the site of a separate attack at Bondi Beach, where he paid tribute to victims of antisemitic violence. 

The visit comes at a time of heightened tension, as fury over the ongoing conflict in Gaza continues to divide public opinion in Australia. While the trip focuses on communal healing, it also highlights the diplomatic complexities surrounding Israel's international relations. Simultaneously, reports from the Middle East indicate that Israel is moving to expand control in the West Bank, further intensifying global scrutiny on its regional policies.