World leaders expressed shock and outrage on Sunday (Dec 14) after a mass shooting at Sydney’s Bondi Beach left 11 people dead. The attack, which occurred during a Hanukkah celebration, has been labeled a “terrorist” incident by Australian police.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the attack as “shocking and distressing” and “beyond comprehension.” Israeli President Isaac Herzog called it a “cruel attack on Jews,” saying, “Our sisters and brothers in Sydney have been attacked by vile terrorists.”
European leaders also condemned the attack. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described it as an “appalling act of violence,” adding that Europe stands united against violence, antisemitism, and hatred. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas emphasized that such violence must be unequivocally condemned.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed condolences to all affected, while French President Emmanuel Macron vowed to “fight relentlessly against antisemitic hatred.” Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni voiced “profound grief” and condemned all forms of violence and antisemitism. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul called the attack “an act of hatred directed against all Jews worldwide on the first day of Hanukkah.”
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that his country “stands in solidarity with Australia” and stressed that “terror and hatred must never prevail.”
The Australian National Imams Council also condemned the “horrific” shooting, urging unity and solidarity, while the head of Australia’s Jewish Association, Robert Gregory, criticized the government for failing to take adequate measures to protect the community.
Source: AFP
