Herzog: ‘I feel that hope is in the air’

Israeli President Isaac Herzog finished his visit to Australia after addressing the Melbourne Jewish community last Thursday, amid extensive security.

During their four-day visit to Australia, the packed itinerary of Herzog and First Lady Michal Herzog included a ceremony at the Bondi Pavilion where the Herzogs laid Jerusalem stones to honour the 15 victims of the Bondi massacre, conversations with Bondi survivors and first responders, a visit to Moriah College, meetings with political leaders, and community gatherings in Sydney and Melbourne.

In his final address last Thursday, Herzog said he was returning to Israel with hope.

“Being here today in Melbourne, surrounded by Jewish school children, by dear friends and allies, in the presence of the Premier of Victoria – I feel that hope in the air,” Herzog stated.

“Michal and I came to Australia on a journey of solidarity, following the horrific terrorist attack at Bondi. We return to Israel feeling empowered, because we have seen firsthand the beauty and resilience of this community and its significance in the eyes of all Australians of goodwill. We rediscovered the famous spirit of Australian Jews, which is simply unbreakable!”