Extreme security measures, including rooftop snipers and thousands of police officers, have been deployed during Israeli President Isaac Herzog's visit to Australia.
Herzog, who arrived in Sydney this morning, was whisked away from Sydney Airport by a heavily armed contingent of police and bodyguards as he kicked off his three-day visit to the NSW capital.
A massive police operation is underway across the city, with 3500 police officers on the ground and snipers stationed on the roof of Herzog's hotel.
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Police are bracing for huge protests against the Israeli president's state visit to Australia.
NSW Police have been granted special powers during Herzog's trip, which grants them extraordinary powers to move people along and establish an exclusion zone.
But pro-Palestinian activists, planning a major demonstration in Sydney against Herzog's visit will today launch a last-minute legal action today.
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The proposed route of the pro-Palestine march planned for later today falls within the exclusion zone, which covers the CBD and Pyrmont to the eastern suburbs.
The Palestine Action Group (PAG) said up to 5000 people would march from Town Hall to state parliament to oppose the visit.
Police want the rally be confined to Hyde Park.
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Officers will also have the right to stop and search anyone or any vehicle without a warrant.
Failure to comply with lawful police direction could result in fines of up to $5500 or exclusion from the major event area.
Police said today they're hoping officers won't have to use any powers because they''ve been liaising closely with the protest organisers.
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NSW Premier Chris Minns on Saturday urged protesters to remain "calm and respectful".
He also asked residents to avoid the CBD if they can and confirmed there would be a "massive" police presence.
"We can disagree without resorting to clashes or violence on Sydney streets," Minns said.
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