Sydney Police Under Scrutiny Following Violent Anti-Herzog Protest
Published 13 February 2026
Highlights
- The NSW Police watchdog will investigate alleged police misconduct during a protest against Israeli President Isaac Herzog's visit to Sydney.
- The Law Enforcement Conduct Commission received numerous complaints about police actions, including videos showing officers allegedly using excessive force.
- NSW Premier Chris Minns defended the police, stating they were in a difficult situation due to new protest restrictions.
- The protest, organized by the Palestine Action Group, resulted in 27 arrests and nine charges, with claims of police brutality and anti-Palestinian racism.
- The investigation will include a review of all available evidence and a public report to the NSW parliament.
The New South Wales (NSW) Police are facing an independent investigation following allegations of misconduct during a protest against Israeli President Isaac Herzog's visit to Sydney. The Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC) announced its decision to probe the police operation after receiving a significant number of complaints from the public.
Allegations of Police Misconduct
The protest, which took place on Monday, saw thousands gather to voice opposition to Herzog's visit, citing accusations of inciting violence against Palestinians. Videos from the event allegedly show police officers using excessive force, including punching protesters and forcibly removing a group of praying Muslim men. A state MP was among those reportedly injured during the clashes.
The LECC has committed to a thorough investigation, promising to review all available materials, including video footage and police records. The commission plans to conduct hearings and will eventually present a public report to the NSW parliament.
Government and Community Reactions
NSW Premier Chris Minns has defended the police, arguing that they were placed in an "impossible situation" due to recent protest restrictions. These restrictions, introduced after an antisemitic attack at Bondi Beach, grant police significant authority to control protest activities, including the power to shut down areas of the city.
Despite the premier's support, the protest organizers and various community groups have criticized the police response. The Palestine Action Group, which organized the demonstration, described the police operation as a "riot" targeting peaceful demonstrators. The Australian National Imams Council and the Australia Palestine Advocacy Network have also condemned the police actions, calling for transparency and accountability.
Legal and Social Implications
The protest resulted in 27 arrests, with nine individuals facing charges. Ten police officers were reportedly assaulted during the event. The NSW Police Commissioner defended the officers' actions, citing the challenges posed by the protest's scale and the new legal framework.
What this might mean
The LECC's investigation could have significant implications for police operations and protest rights in Australia. Should the commission find evidence of misconduct, it may lead to calls for policy changes and increased oversight of police activities. The situation also highlights the ongoing tension between maintaining public order and protecting the right to protest, a debate that could influence future legislative actions in NSW and beyond.
As the investigation unfolds, it will be crucial for both the government and law enforcement to balance security concerns with the preservation of democratic freedoms. The outcome of this inquiry may set a precedent for how similar situations are handled in the future, potentially reshaping the landscape of protest rights in Australia.
