Sydney: Australians on Monday condemned the forcible removal of worshippers by police during protests against Israeli President Isaac Herzog's visit to the city. The Australian National Imams Council described the police actions as "shocking, deeply disturbing, and entirely unacceptable," following the circulation of footage showing Muslims being pushed and moved while in prayer.

According to Anadolu Agency, the council expressed their outrage in a statement shared on social media platform X, emphasizing that police should not interfere with religious worship or exacerbate sensitive situations. The council further stated that it has raised serious concerns with the NSW Police Commissioner and relevant government ministers, calling for accountability from the NSW Government and Premier Chris Minns.

Clashes between police and protesters occurred as thousands took to the streets across Australia to demonstrate against Herzog's visit, which started on Monday. NSW Police Assistant Commissioner Peter McKenna defended the actions of the officers involved, asserting that their conduct was justified. He reported that nearly 6,000 people participated in the Sydney protests, resulting in 27 arrests.

Herzog's visit to Australia is part of an official engagement, with heightened security measures in place following a previous terror attack in Bondi. The visit comes amid ongoing tensions and conflict in the Gaza Strip, where a UN Human Rights Council commission found evidence of genocide by Israel. The conflict has resulted in significant casualties and infrastructure destruction in Gaza, despite a ceasefire agreement.