The Australian National Imams Council (ANIC) has condemned the Federal Government’s decision to host Israeli President Isaac Herzog. They described the act as a shameful disregard for international law and human dignity.
Legal complaint lodged over visa and alleged crimes
ANIC, in a statement, expressed outrage that the Government welcomed and facilitated the visit of President Herzog, who arrived in Sydney this week.
The Council cited a 2025 United Nations Human Rights Council-mandated Commission of Inquiry, which found President Herzog incited the commission of genocide in Gaza. The finding partly relied on his public statements, which rejected distinctions between civilians and combatants.
ANIC stated that such language endorsed collective punishment against a civilian population, over half of whom are children and women. International legal bodies, including the International Court of Justice, have referenced these statements as evidence of genocidal intent.
The Council also highlighted President Herzog’s conduct beyond rhetoric, noting he publicly photographed himself signing artillery shells later used in Gaza’s bombardment.
“This act reflects a disturbing moral numbness. Such behaviour should disqualify any individual from being welcomed as a legitimate guest,” ANIC stated.
ANIC accused Israel of carrying out indiscriminate military actions in Gaza over two years, killing civilians, aid workers, and journalists. This includes destroying essential infrastructure, obstructing aid, and creating famine conditions.
The Australian National Imams Council rejects portrayals of public opposition as unreasonable
The Council stated President Herzog repeatedly justified or denied these atrocities, bearing direct responsibility for the devastation.
Additionally, it also rejected portrayals of public opposition as unreasonable, stating outrage aligns with findings of international human rights bodies.
In response, ANIC, alongside the Jewish Council of Australia and the Hind Rajab Foundation, lodged a formal legal complaint. The complaint was registered with the Attorney-General, the Minister for Home Affairs, and the Australian Federal Police.
Senior counsel prepared the complaint, calling for the refusal or cancellation of President Herzog’s visa under the Migration Act 1958. It also calls for commencement of a criminal investigation under Australian law, the Criminal Code and the Geneva Conventions Act 1957.
The Council concluded that welcoming a foreign head of state credibly accused of inciting genocide undermines Australia’s commitment to human rights, international law, and moral leadership.
In another development, the death toll in Gaza has been steadily rising following an increase in Israeli attacks in the region. However, these attacks continue despite the ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip.
Similarly, key researchers of Human Rights Watch (HRW) have resigned over a report that labelled Israel’s denial of Palestinian refugees’ right of return a “crime against humanity.”
