Australian imams condemn police removal of praying protesters in Sydney

Australia's peak Islamic body has sharply criticized the police handling of protests during Israeli President Isaac Herzog's official visit to Sydney, condemning the forcible removal of Muslim worshippers at a demonstration. The Australian National Imams Council described footage of police intervening during prayers as "deeply disturbing and entirely unacceptable," demanding accountability from state authorities.

Imams Council and Police Response

In a statement, the Council said police should not "interfere with religious worship or inflame an already sensitive situation" and reported raising urgent concerns directly with the New South Wales Police Commissioner and government ministers. In response, NSW Police Assistant Commissioner Peter McKenna defended officers' actions during the protests, which drew nearly 6,000 people in Sydney and resulted in 27 arrests, stating he "absolutely" believed the police response was justified.

Protests Against Herzog’s Visit

The demonstrations coincided with President Herzog's arrival in Australia, his first official visit, which was met with widespread protests in multiple cities. The visit occurs in a highly charged context, following a UN Human Rights Council commission of inquiry finding last year that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza and citing statements by Herzog as evidence of genocidal intent.

Broader Context of the Gaza Conflict

The protests reflect ongoing global outcry over the war in Gaza, which began after the October 7, 2023 attacks. Palestinian health authorities report over 72,000 fatalities and widespread destruction in the enclave. Although a ceasefire is nominally in place, Palestinian officials accuse Israel of continued violations. Herzog's trip, heavily secured by police and Israeli details, aimed to engage with Jewish communities after a recent terror attack in Bondi, but instead highlighted deep domestic divisions over the conflict.