Australian government invites Herzog to visit
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has called Israel’s President Isaac Herzog, telling him that his government has recommended the Governor General that Australia should officially invite him to visit.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog speaking in Tel Aviv on April 7, 2025. Photo by Gil Nehushtan/TPS-IL
During the conversation, Prime Minister Albanese expressed his profound shock and dismay over the terror attack against the Australian Jewish community in Sydney last week and conveyed his deep sorrow to the families of the victims.
The president issued a statement saying: “President Herzog also expressed his deep horror and shock over the catastrophic terror attack at the Jewish community Chanukah event on Bondi Beach. He conveyed his profound condolences to the families of the victims and his wishes for a speedy recovery for all those injured. President Herzog underscored the importance of taking all legal measures to combat the unprecedented rise in antisemitism, extremism, and jihadist terror.”
Jeremy Leibler, the president of the Zionist Federation of Australia, has also sent President Herzog an invitation.
President Herzog says he intends to do so.
ZFA President Jeremy Leibler called the visit an important moment of solidarity and healing.
“We are grateful that the Australian Government has now taken up that call and, in accordance with protocol, will extend the formal invitation for a state visit. That matters – because it shows, at the highest national level, that Australia stands with its Jewish citizens, and Australia stands with Israel, against terrorism and hatred.”
President Herzog’s presence will bring comfort to those who are grieving and reassurance to a community living with fear. It will also honour the victims and the courage shown on the day and reaffirm the shared resolve of two democracies to confront antisemitism, hate and violence with clarity and strength.”
