NSW Labor backbenchers to protest Israel president Isaac Herzog’s visit in defiance of premier

Sydney is bracing for protests as Israeli President Isaac Herzog visits Australia, with a significant division emerging within the New South Wales (NSW) Labor party over the appropriateness of welcoming him. Several NSW Labor backbenchers have announced their intention to participate in a rally organised by the Palestine Action Group on Monday evening, despite opposition from Premier Chris Minns.

Labor Divisions and Planned Protests

At least three NSW Labor upper house MLCs – Cameron Murphy, Stephen Lawrence, and Sarah Kaine – plan to attend the protest. Murphy stated his participation is due to his belief that Australia should not welcome the head of a state he alleges is engaged in an “ongoing genocide.” Lawrence indicated he would attend the rally at Town Hall but has not yet decided if he will march, stating he will comply with the law. Kaine is scheduled to speak at the rally and plans to attend a “legal protest.”

Security Concerns and Protest Restrictions

NSW Premier Chris Minns has warned residents to expect a “major security response” during Herzog’s visit. This comes as NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon extended a ban on authorized protests in designated areas for a fourth time on Tuesday, citing Herzog’s visit as a factor. The restriction prevents protesters from marching without risking arrest for obstructing traffic. Organizers of the Sydney protest intend to march from Town Hall to Macquarie Street despite the ban and have requested police assistance to facilitate a peaceful demonstration.

Did You Know? In December 2024, the population of New South Wales exceeded 8.5 million, making it Australia’s most populous state.

Legal Challenges and International Context

The current protest ban is facing a constitutional challenge, with concerns raised by Stephen Lawrence, who is also a barrister, about delays in scheduling a hearing. He pointed out an initial agreement for a hearing on January 16th was postponed until the end of February. The planned protests occur against a backdrop of international scrutiny, with a UN commission concluding in September 2025 that Israel had committed genocide in Gaza, alleging that Herzog, along with other Israeli leaders, had “incited the commission of genocide.” Israel’s foreign ministry rejected the UN commission’s report.

Expert Insight: The division within the NSW Labor party highlights the complex political challenges surrounding international conflicts and the balancing act between upholding freedom of speech and maintaining public order. The premier’s attempts to restrict protests, coupled with the backbenchers’ defiance, demonstrate the sensitivity of this issue and the potential for escalating tensions.

Premier Minns stated he had not spoken with the MPs planning to attend the rallies and acknowledged division within the wider party, a situation he noted has existed for some time. Greens MP Jenny Leong stated she will participate in any march that occurs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What prompted the extension of the protest ban?

NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon extended the ban on authorized protests in designated areas for a fourth time on Tuesday, citing Israeli President Isaac Herzog’s visit as a factor.

Who has publicly stated they will attend the protest?

NSW Labor MLCs Cameron Murphy, Stephen Lawrence, and Sarah Kaine have publicly stated they will attend the protest organised by the Palestine Action Group.

What is Israel’s response to the UN commission’s report?

Israel’s foreign ministry rejected the UN commission’s report, calling it “distorted and false” and claiming it “relies entirely on Hamas falsehoods.”

As tensions rise ahead of President Herzog’s visit, will the planned protests proceed peacefully, and how will the NSW government navigate the balance between security concerns and the right to protest?

NSW Labor backbenchers to protest Israel president Isaac Herzog’s visit in defiance of premier | New South Wales