Israeli President Isaac Herzog has vehemently rejected accusations that he incited genocide in Gaza, as his visit to Australia sparked significant protests and public debate. During an appearance on the television program Sunrise on Thursday morning, Herzog addressed questions from host Nat Barr regarding a United Nations Commission of Inquiry report linking his statements to alleged genocidal intent by Israeli officials.
Herzog's Firm Denial of Genocide Allegations
In response to the UN allegations, Herzog stated unequivocally, "I never incited genocide. It's a libelous lie." He attributed the accusations to what he described as widespread misinformation and propaganda, saying, "That's part of the whole circumstances of our lives ... enormous brainwashing with a lot of lies and blasphemy which has no basis." The commission had cited remarks Herzog made on October 13, 2023, following Hamas attacks on Israel, where he implied collective responsibility among Palestinians in Gaza.
Context of Herzog's Controversial Statements
Herzog's comments from October 2023, in which he said, "It's an entire nation out there that is responsible. It is not true, this rhetoric about civilians who were not aware and not involved. It is absolutely not true. They could have risen up, they could have fought against that evil regime which took over Gaza," were highlighted by the UN as indicative of a broader pattern. On Sunrise, Herzog defended his stance, emphasizing Israel's right to self-defense against Hamas, which he labeled "the most barbaric and vicious terror organisation." He expressed sorrow over the conflict, noting, "It is extremely difficult, extremely painful. None of us want war."
Humanitarian Concerns and War Casualties
The interview touched on the severe humanitarian toll of the war, with Barr referencing UN and World Health Organisation data indicating over 67,000 Palestinian deaths since the October 7 attacks. When asked, "When is enough, enough?" Herzog responded by outlining Israel's current efforts to conclude hostilities. He praised international mediation attempts, including those by US President Donald Trump, to broker a ceasefire and facilitate hostage exchanges. Herzog expressed hope for a future where Hamas is disarmed and Gaza sees substantial development, stating, "Now a whole worldwide effort is based in Israel and in Gaza in order to decommission Hamas, take out its arms and enable a better future with huge development and investment in Gaza. Is it realistic? Is it feasible? We pray and hope, yes."
Herzog's Australian Visit and Meeting with Albanese
Herzog's four-day tour of Australia included emotional visits, such as to the site of the Bondi Beach terror attack, and a meeting with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. He described the trip as "very emotional" and an opportunity to support the Jewish community, which he said has faced increased anti-Semitism. Herzog noted, "Australia has seen the price of hate and anti-Semitism in the terrible Bondi attack, culminated after two years of an almost anti-Semitic wave in this country and elsewhere." Despite these challenges, he acknowledged a silent majority of Australians who seek peace and dialogue with Israel.
Herzog characterized his discussion with Albanese as "very productive" and expressed optimism that his visit might foster positive change in bilateral relations. However, his arrival was met with protests involving approximately 30,000 people in Sydney's central business district, which turned violent as police intervened to manage crowds near the International Convention Centre where Herzog was speaking.
Response to Protests and Broader Implications
In reaction to the demonstrations, Herzog questioned the protesters' focus, asking, "I ask all these protesters in Australia, where are you when about 50,000 Iranians have been mowed and killed brutally by their own regime?" This statement underscored his view that criticism of Israel is disproportionate compared to other global conflicts. Throughout his visit, Herzog reiterated his commitment to peace, saying, "All I want is for our neighbors, just like us, to live in peace and quiet and tranquility. Believe me I care for the pain of the Palestinians, but terror cannot reign in the world."
The ongoing war and Herzog's comments continue to fuel international debate, with the UN allegations adding to the complexity of diplomatic relations between Israel and countries like Australia. As Herzog concluded his tour, the protests highlighted deep divisions within Australian society over the conflict, while his meetings aimed to strengthen ties and address concerns about anti-Semitism and security.
