By The South Asia Times

CANBERRA - Hundreds of demonstrators rallied outside Australia’s Parliament House on Wednesday to protest the official visit of Israeli President Isaac Herzog, underscoring deep divisions within the country over the ongoing war in Gaza and Israel’s leadership.

Protesters waved Palestinian flags and held placards criticizing Israeli military actions and demanding to arrest Israeli president.

Several political figures joined the gathering, including ACT Senator David Pocock and Greens leader Larissa Waters. The demonstration reflected growing public pressure on the Australian government to address humanitarian concerns linked to the conflict.

Independent MP Zali Steggall questioned Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on what steps Australia would take to ensure accountability for the death of Australian aid worker Zomi Frankcom.

Frankcom was among a group of World Central Kitchen humanitarian workers killed in an Israeli airstrike in Gaza in April 2024, an incident that prompted national mourning and calls for justice.

Albanese confirmed he raised the matter directly with Herzog during their meeting, along with what he described as “a range of other government concerns.” He stressed that Australia expects transparency from Israel as investigations continue.

“We continue to press for full accountability, including any appropriate criminal charges. We will continue working to ensure transparency and appropriate action,” the prime minister said, according to ABC News.

Herzog’s four-day visit has been accompanied by heightened security and sustained protests since his arrival on Monday. Earlier in the week, thousands marched in multiple cities, with some demonstrations escalating into clashes with police.

Video footage widely shared online appeared to show New South Wales police forcibly removing Muslim worshippers while they were performing prayers during one protest. The images triggered strong backlash from community leaders and rights advocates.

The Australian National Imams Council condemned the police response as “shocking, deeply disturbing, and entirely unacceptable,” while Australia’s Special Envoy for Islamophobia, Aftab Malik, called for an independent investigation and urged New South Wales Premier Chris Minns to publicly apologize to the Muslim community, according to Anadolu Agency.

Herzog’s visit comes at a time of intense international scrutiny over the Gaza war, which began after the October 2023 Hamas attacks on Israel. The conflict has resulted in heavy casualties with more than 72,000 deaths of Palestinians and widespread destruction in the Palestinian enclave, fueling protests in many countries.

The demonstrations in Australia highlight the domestic political and social challenges facing Albanese’s government as it balances diplomatic engagement with Israel against mounting public demands for accountability and a stronger stance against Israel.