World leaders are expressing outrage following a mass shooting at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, which left at least 10 people dead and 12 injured, including two police officers. The attack occurred on the evening of December 10, 2023, coinciding with the first night of Hanukkah, a significant Jewish holiday. Witnesses reported that multiple gunmen opened fire on a large crowd gathered for the Chanukah by the Sea festival, an event celebrating the holiday.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog condemned the violence as a “cruel” act targeting Jewish individuals. Speaking from the President’s Residence in Jerusalem, Herzog stated, “Our sisters and brothers in Sydney, Australia, have been attacked by vile terrorists in a very cruel attack on Jews who went to light the first candle of Hanukkah.” He urged the Australian government to take decisive action against the rising tide of antisemitism in the country, adding, “We repeat our alerts time and again to the Australian government to seek action and fight against the enormous wave of antisemitism which is plaguing Australian society.”
The shooting drew immediate responses from leaders around the world. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the incident as “deeply distressing,” extending his condolences to those affected. He noted on social media, “The United Kingdom sends our thoughts and condolences to everyone affected by the appalling attack in Bondi Beach.” Just prior to the shooting, Starmer had wished Jewish communities around the world a happy Hanukkah.
UK Opposition Leader Kemi Badenoch also reacted, calling the scenes emerging from Bondi Beach “heartbreaking” and condemning what she referred to as another “despicable terrorist atrocity.”
In the United States, ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee characterized the attack as “horrific.” Meanwhile, New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon expressed his shock at the violence occurring in a location familiar to many New Zealanders.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar voiced his dismay, stating that the shooting was a direct consequence of the rising antisemitism in Australia over the past two years. “These are the results of the antisemitic rampage in the streets of Australia over the past two years,” Saar posted on social media. He emphasized the need for the Australian government to heed warnings regarding this issue.
Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett called for accountability and immediate action to protect Jewish communities. He highlighted conversations with Jewish community leaders who have expressed feelings of fear and outrage. “For months, they warned of rising antisemitism. The writing was on the wall. It was ignored,” Bennett stated. He insisted that “statements of sympathy are no longer enough,” underscoring that Jews should not fear for their lives anywhere, including Australia.
As investigations continue into the Bondi Beach shooting, global leaders are rallying together to address the growing concern of antisemitism and to call for effective measures to ensure the safety of vulnerable communities. The impact of this tragic event is likely to resonate throughout the international community as discussions surrounding hate crimes and public safety intensify.
