Australian PM Confronted by Angry Protesters During Mosque Visit Over Gaza Policy

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese faced hostile demonstrators during a religious celebration at Sydney's largest mosque on Friday. Protesters disrupted the Eid al-Fitr service, shouting accusations and demanding the PM leave over his government's position on the Israel-Gaza conflict.

SYDNEY – Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese encountered a hostile reception Friday when demonstrators disrupted his visit to Sydney’s largest mosque during Eid al-Fitr celebrations, expressing outrage over his administration’s approach to the Israel-Gaza conflict.

The confrontation occurred at Lakemba Mosque in western Sydney, where Albanese and Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke had joined Muslim worshippers to commemorate the conclusion of Ramadan. Video footage captured the disruption beginning approximately 15 minutes into the religious ceremony.

Angry demonstrators shouted at both officials to “Get out!” while labeling them “genocide supporters,” referencing Israel’s military actions against Palestinians in Gaza that followed the 2023 Hamas militant attack.

An event organizer attempted to restore order, telling the crowd: “Dear brothers and sisters, keep calm a little bit. It is Eid. It is a joyful day.” The organizer also encouraged attendees to remain seated and stop recording the disturbance.

Security personnel intervened when one protester became particularly disruptive, physically restraining the individual before removing them from the premises. Both Albanese and Burke departed the mosque soon after, with demonstrators continuing their criticism by shouting “Shame on you!” as the officials left.

The incident highlights growing frustration within Australia’s Muslim and Jewish populations regarding the center-left government’s careful balancing act since the Gaza conflict began. The administration has simultaneously expressed sympathy for Palestinian civilians, called repeatedly for ceasefires, and affirmed Israel’s right to defend itself.

This confrontation follows similar protests that erupted last month during Israeli President Isaac Herzog’s visit to Australia. Albanese had extended the invitation to Herzog following a deadly December 14 mass shooting in Bondi that specifically targeted the Jewish community. That visit prompted thousands to rally in Sydney, resulting in 27 arrests after demonstrators clashed with law enforcement officers.