CALL ON THE ATTORNEY-GENERAL TO INVESTIGATE ISAAC HERZOG

Pictured: Israeli President Isaac Herzog signing an artillery shell bound for Gaza

On 29 December 2025, the Australian Friends of Palestine Association (AFOPA) wrote to the Australian Federal Police and the Attorney-General, calling for an urgent investigation into Israeli President Isaac Herzog for alleged incitement of genocide, should he enter Australia in January 2026 ,as expected. 

A leader accused of inciting genocide should not be welcomed into this country, but if he steps foot in Australia, Isaac Herzog must be investigated under Australian and international law.

We know that the International Court of Justice cited Mr Herzog’s statements when assessing the risk that a genocide was occurring in Gaza. We also know that the UN Independent Commission of Inquiry found that statements made by Mr Herzog amounted to direct and public incitement to commit genocide under the Genocide Convention.

 Under Division 268 of the Criminal Code, the Australian Federal Police has jurisdiction to investigate genocide and other war crimes committed overseas when the suspect is in Australia. 

We need public pressure to ensure that these laws are enforced.

Email the Attorney-General

Demand that, if Isaac Herzog travels to Australia, the Australian Federal Police immediately investigate his criminal liability.

Email: attorney@ag.gov.au

Example:

Dear Attorney-General Rowland,

I am writing as a concerned Australian about the proposed  visit of Israeli President Isaac Herzog to Australia in January 2026. Findings by the United Nations Independent Commission of Inquiry indicate that Mr Herzog’s statements and actions may constitute incitement of genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. These are crimes under international law. Under  Australia’s Criminal Code Act 1995, the Australian Federal Police has the power and duty to investigate such crimes, even if committed overseas.

I urge you to take immediate action:

  • Commit to investigating Mr Herzog if he enters Australia

  • Ensure that Australia does not become a safe haven for leaders accused of genocide

  • Take immediate and serious action to uphold Australia’s obligations under International Humanitarian Law

Allowing a leader accused of such grave crimes to visit our country without investigation undermines the rule of law, Australia’s obligations under the Genocide Convention, and our values as a nation.

I call upon you to uphold justice and act decisively.

Contact your Local Media

Tell your local news outlets that the Australian public deserves to know the truth about Herzog and to demand accountability under international and Australian law. 

Example:
Dear Editor/Reporter,

I am writing as a concerned Australian regarding the proposed visit of Israeli President Isaac Herzog to Australia in January 2026.

Findings by the United Nations Independent Commission of Inquiry indicate that Mr Herzog’s statements and actions may constitute incitement of genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. These are crimes under international law and under Australia’s Criminal Code Act 1995.

Australians must know that:

  • The Australian Friends of Palestine Association has formally requested the Australian Federal Police and the Attorney-General to investigate Mr Herzog if he travels to Australia.

  • Australian authorities have a legal and moral duty to investigate leaders suspected of breaching international humanitarian law while on our soil.

  • Allowing Herzog to enter without investigation would further undermine Australia’s commitment to justice, human rights, and the rule of law.

I urge your outlet to cover this issue and to inform the public of the ramifications should Herzog visit Australia.