Israeli officials have directed sharp criticism at the Australian government in the wake of a deadly shooting in Sydney that left at least 11 people dead and 29 others injured. The attack occurred during a Jewish event known as “Chanukah By The Sea” at Bondi Beach on December 10, 2023. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has linked the incident to rising antisemitism in Australia, accusing the government of ignoring multiple warnings.
Netanyahu expressed his concerns during a government meeting, reading from a letter he sent to Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese earlier this year. In the letter, Netanyahu stated that Albanese’s support for a Palestinian state exacerbates antisemitism and emboldens those who threaten Australian Jews. He condemned the Australian government’s inaction, stating, “Your call for a Palestinian state pours fuel on the antisemitic fire. It rewards Hamas terrorists. It emboldens those who menace Australian Jews and encourages the Jew hatred now stalking your streets.”
In response to the shooting, Israeli President Isaac Herzog and Foreign Minister Gideon Saar also issued statements emphasizing the need for Australia to confront the growing wave of antisemitism. Herzog remarked, “Time and again we called on the Australian government to take action and fight against the enormous wave of antisemitism that is plaguing Australian society.” His statement included a graphic image of a blood-stained prayer shawl, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
Saar’s remarks were particularly pointed, as he criticized Australian authorities for their failure to recognize the signs of escalating Islamist extremism. He stated, “I am appalled by the murderous shooting attack at a Hanukkah event in Sydney. This is the result of the antisemitic rampage in the streets of Australia over the past two years.” Saar’s choice of words highlights the intense feelings surrounding the incident and the broader implications for Jewish communities in Australia.
Police investigations into the attack indicate that at least two gunmen were involved, with one reportedly killed during the incident and another hospitalized. Authorities are considering the possibility of a third shooter and have discovered multiple improvised explosive devices in a vehicle near the scene. New South Wales Police Commissioner stated that a bomb disposal unit is actively addressing this potential threat.
Prime Minister Albanese condemned the attack and reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring the safety of Jewish Australians. He emphasized the importance of unity against violence and hatred, stating that such acts have no place in society.
The shooting has raised alarms not only within Australia but also internationally, as it highlights ongoing concerns about antisemitism and violence against minority communities. The Israeli government’s swift response reflects its broader concerns regarding the safety of Jews worldwide, particularly in regions experiencing heightened tensions related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
As investigations continue, the tragic events of December 10 serve as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by communities in addressing hate and violence. The hope remains that this incident will prompt meaningful actions to combat antisemitism and promote safety for all citizens.
