Herzog: Antisemitism in Australia is ‘frightening’ but most people respect Jews, want dialogue with Israel

President Isaac Herzog says antisemitism in Australia is “frightening” but most people want good relations, on the final day of a visit expected to spark protests in the city of Melbourne.

Herzog’s tightly policed four day visit to Australia this week was meant to offer consolation to the country’s Jewish community following December’s mass shooting on Bondi Beach in which terrorists killed 15 people.

But it has sparked anti-Israel demonstrations in major cities including in Sydney, where police used pepper spray on protesters and members of the media, including an AFP photographer, during scuffles in the city’s central business district.

Ahead of a visit Thursday to Melbourne, Herzog tells Channel Seven’s Sunrise a “wave” of anti-Jewish hatred in Australia had culminated in the December 14 Bondi killings.

“It is frightening and worrying,” he says.

“But there’s also a silent majority of Australians who seek peace, who respect the Jewish community and of course, want a dialogue with Israel.”

The head of state says he had brought a “message of goodwill to the people of Australia.”

“I hope there will be a change. I hope things will relax,” he says.

Protesters are expected to turn out in force later on Thursday against Herzog’s visit around 5 p.m. local time.

Many Jewish Australians have welcomed Herzog’s trip.