Canberra [Australia], December 14 (ANI): Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese addressed the nation on Sunday following the mass shooting at Sydney’s Bondi Beach, describing it as a “devastating terror attack” and expressing solidarity with the country’s Jewish community.
In his address, Albanese said the incident was “a targeted attack on Jewish Australians on the first day of Hanukkah, which should be a day of joy, a celebration of faith, an act of evil, antisemitism, terrorism that has struck the heart of our nation.” He added, “There is no place for this hate, violence and terrorism in our nation.”
The Prime Minister stressed that authorities are working to identify all those involved and ensure accountability. “Let me be clear, we will eradicate it amidst this vile act of violence and hate, and there will emerge a moment of national unity where Australians across the board will embrace their fellow Australians of Jewish faith,” he said.
Reflecting on the impact of the attack, Albanese said, “The evil that was unleashed at Bondi Beach today is beyond comprehension, and the trauma and loss that families are dealing with tonight is beyond anyone’s worst nightmare.” He also paid tribute to the “heroes” who ran towards danger to help others.
Calling for national unity, Albanese urged Australians to uphold the nation’s “true character,” stating the country would never submit to “division, violence or hatred.” Addressing the Jewish community directly, he said, “Your fellow Australians stand with you tonight in condemning this act of terror.”
The remarks came as police detailed the scale of the attack at Bondi Beach, which specifically targeted the Jewish community. Authorities reported at least 11 people killed and 29 others injured. Police said two suspects were involved, with one in custody in critical condition and the other shot dead at the scene. The identities of the attackers have not yet been released.
The shooting occurred while more than 1,000 people had gathered at Bondi Beach for a Hanukkah celebration. Police described the assault as “designed to target Sydney’s Jewish community,” highlighting the attackers’ intent. The timing of the shooting, the weapons used, and the offenders’ actions led authorities to declare the incident a terrorist attack within hours.
The attack prompted reactions worldwide. Israeli officials expressed anger and criticized the Australian government over rising antisemitism, while the Jewish Council of Australia called the incident a “horrific act of antisemitic violence during the Jewish festival of light and hope.” The council added, “Many within our community have just received the worst news of their lives. In moments like this, we hold each other close.”
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