Police in Australia used pepper spray and made arrests at a Sydney rally opposing the visit of Israeli President Isaac Herzog, after New South Wales Police said some protesters attempted to march despite temporary restrictions linked to expanded “major event” powers. Authorities said 27 people were arrested and alleged officers were assaulted, while medics treated demonstrators affected by pepper spray. Organisers and speakers said the protest was about Gaza and political accountability, while police leadership argued that rhetoric encouraged an unlawful march in a heightened-security setting for an internationally protected guest. Several lawmakers raised concerns about police conduct, including allegations of excessive force and claims a MP was assaulted; police disputed aspects of those criticisms. The confrontation followed a court decision r ...