A chilling message scrawled across a wall at the University of Melbourne has highlighted concerns about rising antisemitism as Israeli President Isaac Herzog concluded a tense visit to Australia.

“Death to Herzog,” along with pro-Israel and pro-Australia slogans and a symbol linked to Hamas propaganda, was spray-painted Thursday morning on the university’s Parkville campus. The graffiti was quickly removed, and police have opened an investigation.

The Australasian Union of Jewish Students condemned the message, calling it a call for violence that “crosses a clear moral and legal line” and warning that Jewish students already feel unsafe.

The incident came as security concerns forced Herzog to cancel a planned visit to Melbourne’s Adass Yisrael synagogue, still closed after a 2024 firebombing later linked by the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation to Iran.

Herzog’s tour has been marked by large protests and heavy police presence. Dozens have been arrested following clashes in Sydney and Melbourne. He met this week with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Victorian leaders, including Jacinta Allan and Margaret Gardner.

Speaking at a memorial event attended by Israeli Ambassador Amir Maimon, Herzog warned that “blind hatred” had turned Jewish identity into a target.

“I say to the protesters: go protest in front of the Iranian embassy,” he said.

Yet Herzog struck a hopeful note in interviews, saying he still believes most Australians support peace and coexistence.

“There is antisemitism. It is frightening and worrying,” he said. “But there is also a silent majority that wants respect and dialogue.”

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)