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Sydney police deploy pepper spray as Israeli president's visit sparks protests
Police used pepper spray and arrested 27 protesters amid clashes during Israeli President Isaac Herzog's visit, with 3,000 officers deployed to manage demonstrations.
- On Feb 9, 2026, NSW Police deployed pepper spray and scuffled with protesters at Sydney Town Hall, striking journalists including an AFP journalist and arresting at least 15 demonstrators.
- Herzog arrived in Sydney for a four-day visit to console the Jewish community after the Dec 14, 2026 Bondi Beach massacre, while the NSW government invoked new powers and the NSW Supreme Court dismissed protesters' challenge less than 45 minutes before the rally.
- An AFP journalist reported at least 15 arrests and scuffles as officers deployed tear gas and pepper spray, while NSW Police said 27 people were arrested, including 10 assaults and 17 for failing to comply.
- Critics including the NSW Council for Civil Liberties and Sarah Kaine, backbench Labor MP, condemned police for unprovoked violence, while Chris Minns, NSW Premier, said officers faced an "impossible situation".
- A UN inquiry previously found Israeli President Isaac Herzog liable for prosecution for inciting genocide last year, while major Jewish groups welcomed the visit and Melbourne protesters demanded an end to Israel's occupation.
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Leaning Left33Leaning Right27Center20Last UpdatedBias Distribution41% Left
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- 41% of the sources lean Left
41% Left
L 41%
C 25%
R 34%
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