7am Is the Israeli President's visit a "bad mistake"?
Feb 5, 2026
Josh Bornstein, principal lawyer at Maurice Blackburn and legal commentator, gives a brisk take on President Isaac Herzog's visit. He discusses the controversy around allegations at the ICJ, statements that sparked outrage, tensions within the Jewish community, political pressure to rescind the invitation, and ideas for beginning to heal deepening divides.
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Visit Sends Conflicting National Messages
- Inviting President Herzog sends mixed signals about Australia's commitment to international law and social cohesion.
- Josh Bornstein argues the visit undermines Australia's stance on incitement and the rules-based order.
Allegations Cited At The International Court
- Israel faces genocide allegations at the International Court of Justice that cite statements by Israeli leaders, including Herzog.
- Bornstein points to these statements as evidence used in international proceedings and UN inquiries.
Problematic Rhetoric From Herzog
- Herzog publicly said after October 7 that "it's an entire nation out there that is responsible," language the UN panel found could be incitement.
- Bornstein notes the ICJ already referenced such statements when ordering measures to prevent genocide.