Grace Tame's "Globalise the Intifada" Chant Draws Widespread Criticism

Former Australian of the Year Grace Tame has faced strong criticism from federal Members of Parliament and the NSW Premier after leading chants of "globalise the intifada" at a rally protesting the visit of Israeli President Isaac Herzog. The incident occurred Monday night at Sydney's Town Hall.

Tame Accuses Israeli Leader of "Incitement to Genocide"

During the protest, Ms. Tame addressed the crowd, making serious accusations against the visiting Israeli President.

Ms. Tame stated that the Israeli leader had engaged in "incitement to genocide" and had "signed his name on bombs that were used to kill innocent women and children."

Mr. Herzog has previously denied allegations of inciting genocide.

She further criticized Australia, stating it was "a so-called democracy that punishes peaceful protesters like us but welcomes a war criminal with open arms." Following this, she led the chant: "from Gadigal to Gaza, globalise the intifada!"

Understanding "Globalise the Intifada"

The phrase "Globalise the Intifada" is highly contentious, and its use has prompted discussion about legal implications.

The state government is considering outlawing the phrase under revised hate speech laws. The term "intifada" translates to "shaking off" in Arabic and has historically referred to two periods of Palestinian protest against Israel.

Members of the Jewish community have described the phrase as a call for violence.

Premier Minns: "Terrible" and "Distressing"

The NSW Premier, Chris Minns, was quick to condemn Ms. Tame's comments.

Describing her statements as "terrible" on Tuesday, Minns called the scene "distressing."

"In the context of recent events, the phrase suggests a 'violent uprising in Sydney's streets'," Premier Minns commented.

Former Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce went further, suggesting Ms. Tame should be stripped of her Australian of the Year honour. He cited a responsibility to promote harmonious conduct as a reason.

Calls for Focus on Police Actions

In contrast to the condemnation of Ms. Tame's words, Gamel Kheir from the Lebanese Muslim Association shifted the focus to the conduct of authorities.

Mr. Kheir stated that attention should be on police actions at the protest, which included officers appearing to physically engage with protesters. He suggested that police involvement in a peaceful protest should cause greater alarm than the words themselves.

Federal Parliament Weighs In

The issue also reached federal Question Time, where Liberal MP Melissa McIntosh requested Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemn Ms. Tame's comments.

Mr. Albanese responded by accusing the Opposition of seeking political opportunities and urged for a reduction in political tension.

Social Services Minister Tanya Plibersek did not directly comment on Ms. Tame's specific speech. However, she described the phrase "globalise the intifada" as "damaging," indicating that it implies a single state, which Labor does not support. Instead, Labor advocates for a two-state solution.