Man charged over alleged stalking of President Herzog in Sydney
A 45-year-old man has been charged after allegedly stalking Israeli President Isaac Herzog during his official visit to Sydney this week.
Police allege the man repeatedly followed and filmed the president’s motorcade and entourage at several locations across Sydney on Tuesday, February 10, while directing offensive remarks.
President Herzog visiting Moriah College
According to police, officers first observed a grey station wagon in Haymarket in the city’s CBD, where the driver allegedly pulled over to film the president and used abusive language. Later that afternoon, at about 3.45pm, the same vehicle was seen in Bondi Junction, circling a childcare centre. Police allege the driver stopped, filmed a security guard and again used offensive language before leaving the area.
Officers attached to the Counter Terrorism and Special Tactics Command stopped the vehicle on Canterbury Road in Belmore on Thursday, February 12. The 45-year-old driver was arrested and taken to Campsie Police Station.
He was charged with stalking or intimidating with intent to cause fear of physical or mental harm, behaving in an offensive manner in or near a public place or school, and using a mobile phone while driving when not permitted. He was granted conditional bail and is due to appear before Waverley Local Court in March.
President Isaac Herzog and First Lady Michal Herzog arrived in Sydney on Monday, February 9, for a four-day visit focused on commemorating the 15 victims of the Bondi attack and standing in solidarity with the Jewish community.
Earlier this month, a 19-year-old Sydney man was charged over alleged online death threats directed at the president. Police said the threats, made via social media, included references to shooting the visiting leader. Officers arrested the teenager during a raid on February 4, seizing a mobile phone and drug-related items.
He was initially refused bail before being released on strict conditions. While police did not formally name the target, Australian media widely reported that President Herzog was the subject of the threats.
The president’s visit also prompted significant protest activity. Demonstrations near Sydney Town Hall on Monday evening resulted in clashes with police, with 27 people arrested for offences including alleged assaults on officers. Police deployed pepper spray after protesters defied restrictions on marching routes under special event powers granted by the NSW Government.
NSW Premier Chris Minns urged calm and called for peaceful protest, while police said their priority was maintaining public safety and protecting visiting dignitaries.
