"President Herzog’s visit also threatens to send a troubling message that confuses Australian Jews with Israel. By inviting the Israeli president at this moment, what exactly is the Australian government saying? That Israel bears responsibility for Australian Jewish safety? That Australian Jews are, by implication, an extension of a foreign state?
That is precisely the opposite of what we have been arguing, urgently and repeatedly, for the past two years. We have insisted that we are Australians. That we are citizens whose safety is a domestic responsibility, and that the Australian government should do more to help us.
An invitation like this may be intended as solidarity, but it risks reinforcing the very conflation that has made Jewish life here feel so precarious. It risks validating the idea that Jews, wherever we live, are fair proxies for Israel’s actions.
Right now, Australian Jews need quiet and protection. We need our leaders focused on rebuilding trust, ensuring our safety at all our schools, synagogues and institutions, and allow us an opportunity to step out of the glare. We do not need another upheaval that a presidential visit is bound to bring.
There will be a right moment for President Herzog to visit Australia. I am certain of that. I just do not believe that moment is now."
Article dated 3 February 2026.
Source: Quantum168