UPDATE: Global Jewish leaders are expressing outrage and solidarity following a deadly terror attack during a Chanukah celebration in Bondi Beach, Sydney on December 10, 2023. The attack, which occurred on the first night of the festival, has left the Jewish community in Australia and around the world in shock.
World Jewish Congress president Ronald Lauder stated, “My immediate thoughts are with every Jew across Australia and around the world in this painful moment. No community should ever fear coming together to celebrate its faith, traditions, or identity.” He emphasized that this act of terror will not break the community’s spirit, pledging continued unity against violence and hatred.
Sylvan Adams, president of the World Jewish Congress in Israel, described the incident as part of a “global war against the Jews.” He expressed his heartbreak and outrage, stating, “Our Australian Jewish brothers and sisters have endured months of escalating hostility and intimidation. This violent assault is the tragic result of an environment in which antisemitism has been allowed to grow unchecked.” Adams urged Australian leaders to confront this climate of hate with urgency and clarity.
The Maccabi World Union extended its condolences, noting the tragedy of this attack during a time typically marked by community togetherness and the lighting of candles. The joint statement from president Michael Siegal and other leaders emphasized the values of unity and mutual responsibility that the Maccabi movement stands for, declaring, “In moments of sorrow and crisis, these values stand stronger than ever.”
The International March of the Living condemned the attack as not an isolated incident but part of a broader trend of antisemitism. They stated, “The hate marches on Australian streets, the relentless antisemitic attacks, and the normalization of antisemitic discourse have all created conditions that enabled this act of terror.” Their statement highlighted the alarming rise in antisemitic sentiments in Australia, calling it a situation that has gone unchecked for too long.
Rabbis Charley Baginsky and Josh Levy from the Movement for Progressive Judaism in the United Kingdom expressed solidarity with the Australian Jewish community, stating, “Violence at a moment intended for light, gathering, and Jewish pride is profoundly shocking, and our hearts are with all those affected.” They underscored the resilience that Chanukah represents, insisting no one should have to summon such strength in response to violence during a communal celebration.
As investigations continue and the full scope of the tragedy unfolds, Jewish communities worldwide are urged to stand united against this escalation of violence and hatred. The immediate response from global leaders is critical as the world watches how Australia will confront this growing challenge.
This developing story is a stark reminder that the fight against antisemitism and violence is more urgent than ever. Stay tuned for updates as more information becomes available.
