On February 11, 2026, a Hong Kong court ruled that 69-year-old Kwok Yin-sang violated Hong Kong’s National Security Law (also called Article 23) by attempting to handle financial assets belonging to his exiled daughter, Anna Kwok.

This marks the first conviction of its kind. Kwok was accused of trying to cancel an insurance policy purchased years ago for Anna and withdrawing about HKD 80,000. The court determined that this constituted illegal handling of assets belonging to a person listed as a “fugitive.” Kwok denied the charges and did not testify in court. His defense lawyer argued there was no evidence he intended to transfer the funds to his daughter, but the judge still found him guilty. Sentencing will be announced on February 26, with a maximum prison term of several years.

Anna Kwok is the Executive Director of the Hong Kong Democracy Council based in Washington, D.C., and is wanted by Hong Kong police as an overseas democracy activist. Authorities issued a HKD 1,000,000 bounty for her in 2023, accusing her of colluding with foreign forces. Anna condemned the ruling on social media, claiming her father was punished solely for being her parent. International human rights organizations criticized the case as collective punishment and cross-border intimidation, raising serious concerns about the National Security Law’s scope.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog visited Melbourne on February 12, 2026, as part of his tour of Australia. Herzog described the phenomenon of antisemitism in Australia as “shocking and concerning,” but he remains hopeful that most Australians respect Israel.

In an interview with Channel Seven, he noted that despite large protests in multiple cities, his experience in Australia has been encouraging. Herzog emphasized that the visit sends a “message of goodwill” and hopes to “strengthen and comfort the Jewish community in Australia,” aiming to foster positive change.

Victoria Police have been granted additional powers to prepare for expected protests, including the ability to request identification, inspect individuals and vehicles, and cordon off areas attended by the president. Assistant Commissioner Bob Hill stated that police are well-prepared and expect over 5,000 people to gather in protest in Melbourne’s central business district.

Meanwhile, a building on the Parkville campus of the University of Melbourne was sprayed with graffiti reading “Herzog go die” early this morning. The university said it strongly opposes antisemitism and immediately cleaned the graffiti. Police emphasized that no specific threats against Herzog have been identified, but they will remain on high alert to ensure the visit’s safety.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog arrived in Australia on February 9, 2026, for a four-day official visit with Prime Minister Albanese to commemorate victims of the Bondi Beach shooting in December 2025. The attack during Hanukkah killed 15 people and injured dozens, marking Australia’s deadliest hate crime in nearly 29 years.

Herzog laid a wreath and met victims’ families at Bondi Beach. He also met leaders and Jewish cultural and religious institutions, reiterating a joint stance against terrorism and hate, noting that antisemitism is rising globally and Australia is not immune.

Pro-Palestinian groups and human rights organizations held large protests in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra, and Adelaide, criticizing Israel for civilian casualties in Gaza and accusing the Australian government of ignoring Palestinian perspectives.

Police and some protesters clashed in Sydney’s city center. The NSW government, under newly enacted “major events” laws, restricted protest areas and deployed significant police resources to maintain order. Supporters of Herzog argue the visit symbolizes democratic solidarity and condemnation of hate. Both Israeli and Australian leadership framed the visit as promoting anti-hate unity and strengthening diplomatic and social ties.