Desakan Penangkapan Presiden Israel di Australia Setelah Kunjungan Bondi

Canberra is facing international pressure as the planned visit of Israeli President Isaac Herzog approaches. The visit, scheduled to begin on Monday, February 9, 2026, was initially intended as a gesture of solidarity following the December 14, 2025, mass shooting at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia.

Calls for Arrest

The invitation extended to President Herzog has sparked controversy and calls for his arrest upon arrival in Australia. Chris Sidoti, a human rights lawyer and member of the UN’s Independent International Commission of Inquiry, publicly demanded Herzog’s detention, according to reports from AFP on Thursday, February 5, 2026. The commission is investigating alleged human rights violations in Israel and the Palestinian territories.

UN Inquiry Findings

The demand for Herzog’s arrest stems from a 2025 investigation conducted by the UN commission, which alleged that Herzog “incited genocide” by holding the entire Palestinian population responsible for the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks on Israel. Israel has rejected these findings, dismissing them as “distorted and false” and calling for the commission’s dissolution.

Australian Response

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong stated that President Herzog was invited at the request of the Australian Jewish community. She emphasized the visit’s purpose as an opportunity to honor the victims of the Bondi Beach attack and demonstrate support for the community following what she described as the “worst anti-Semitic attack and terrorist attack” in Australian history.

Did You Know? The shooting at Bondi Beach occurred during a Hanukkah celebration on December 14, 2025, resulting in the deaths of 15 people.

The Bondi Beach Attack

The Bondi Beach shooting, carried out by Naveed Akram, has been classified as a terrorist act by New South Wales Police. Akram has been charged with terrorism, 15 counts of murder and other offenses. Investigators believe the attack was inspired by ISIS. Akram and his father, Sajid Akram, opened fire at the festival. Among the victims were a 10-year-old girl, two Holocaust survivors, and a couple who attempted to intervene.

Expert Insight: The Australian government’s decision to invite President Herzog despite the ongoing controversy highlights the complex diplomatic balancing act involved in addressing both domestic concerns regarding antisemitism and international scrutiny of Israeli policies.

Potential Protests

Pro-Palestinian activists in Australia are planning protests against Herzog’s visit, including demonstrations in Sydney. Prime Minister Albanese has been criticized by Sidoti for extending the invitation, which Sidoti described as a “foolish mistake” that should be reversed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What prompted the invitation to President Herzog?

President Herzog was invited by the Australian government to pay a state visit in the aftermath of the December 14, 2025, mass shooting at Bondi Beach, and to show support for the Australian Jewish community.

What are the specific allegations against President Herzog?

A UN commission investigation in 2025 alleged that President Herzog “incited genocide” by attributing responsibility for the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks to the entire Palestinian population.

What charges has the suspect in the Bondi Beach shooting faced?

Naveed Akram has been charged with terrorism, 15 counts of murder, and other offenses related to the Bondi Beach shooting. Police believe the attack was inspired by ISIS.

Given the strong reactions to President Herzog’s upcoming visit, and the planned protests, how might this situation impact Australia’s diplomatic relationships in the region?