Israeli officials have directed sharp criticism at the Australian government following a deadly shooting at a Jewish event in Sydney on December 10, 2023. The incident, which occurred at Bondi Beach, resulted in the deaths of at least 11 individuals and left 29 others injured. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other leaders have accused the Australian government of failing to address escalating antisemitism, suggesting that this negligence contributed to the attack.
During a government meeting, Netanyahu referred to a letter he previously sent to Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, expressing concern over Albanese’s support for a Palestinian state. Netanyahu stated, “Your call for a Palestinian state pours fuel on the antisemitic fire. It rewards Hamas terrorists. It emboldens those who menace Australian Jews.” He emphasized that silence from leadership allows antisemitism to flourish, urging the Australian government to take decisive action against this growing threat.
In his remarks, Netanyahu criticized Albanese’s approach, saying, “You replaced weakness with weakness and appeasement with more appeasement. Your government did nothing to stop the spread of antisemitism in Australia. You let the disease spread and the result is the horrific attacks on Jews we saw today.”
Israeli President Isaac Herzog echoed these sentiments, stating, “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.” Herzog shared a poignant image of a prayer shawl stained in blood, highlighting the severity of the situation.
Foreign Minister Gideon Saar was particularly vocal in his criticism, condemning the attack as a direct result of rising antisemitism and Islamist extremism in Australia. He remarked, “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 insisted that the Australian government must recognize the warning signs and take immediate action.
The Sydney police have confirmed that at least two gunmen were involved in the attack, which targeted a “Chanukah By The Sea” event. One of the alleged attackers was killed during the incident, while the other is currently hospitalized. Authorities are also investigating the possibility of a third shooter.
In a concerning development, police discovered evidence of multiple improvised explosive devices in a vehicle located near the scene. The police commissioner for New South Wales assured the public that a bomb disposal unit is working to address the situation.
Prime Minister Albanese condemned the shooting and reaffirmed his commitment to protecting Jewish Australians. He characterized the attack as an assault on the values of tolerance and respect that Australia stands for.
This tragic event has ignited a broader discourse on the issue of antisemitism in Australia, prompting calls for more proactive measures to combat hate crimes and protect vulnerable communities. The implications of this shooting extend beyond national borders, highlighting the need for international cooperation in addressing rising extremism and safeguarding human rights for all.