Israeli officials have condemned the Australian government following a tragic shooting in Sydney that resulted in at least 11 deaths and numerous injuries. The attack, which occurred during a Jewish event at Bondi Beach, has raised concerns over rising antisemitism in Australia, prompting strong statements from Israeli leaders.
During a government meeting, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly criticized Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for failing to heed warnings regarding escalating antisemitism. Netanyahu referenced a letter he had previously sent to Albanese in which he expressed concern over Albanese’s support for a Palestinian state. He stated, “Your call for a Palestinian state pours fuel on the antisemitic fire.”
Netanyahu accused the Australian government of inaction, saying, “Antisemitism is a cancer. It spreads when leaders stay silent; it retreats when leaders act.” He urged Albanese to replace perceived weakness with decisive action against antisemitism, claiming that the lack of response contributed to the violence witnessed in Sydney.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog and Foreign Minister Gideon Saar also issued strong statements following the attack. Herzog emphasized the need for the Australian government to combat the “enormous wave of antisemitism” affecting society, sharing a poignant image of a blood-stained prayer shawl on social media. Saar echoed these sentiments, condemning the shooting as a direct consequence of antisemitic rhetoric proliferating within Australia.
The shooting occurred at a “Chanukah By The Sea” event, where two gunmen reportedly opened fire. One suspect was killed during the attack, while the other is currently hospitalized. Authorities are investigating the possibility of a third assailant and have discovered improvised explosive devices in a vehicle near the scene.
The New South Wales police commissioner confirmed that a bomb disposal unit is currently assessing the situation. Emergency services responded promptly to the chaos, which resulted in at least 29 individuals being hospitalized.
Prime Minister Albanese condemned the shooting and reiterated his commitment to protecting the Jewish community in Australia. His government faces scrutiny as tensions rise over the handling of antisemitism and the broader implications of foreign policy regarding Palestine.
As investigations continue, the incident has sparked a broader conversation about antisemitism in Australia and the responsibilities of government leaders to address hate crimes. The situation remains fluid, with calls for urgent action from both Israeli officials and members of Australia’s Jewish community.
