A shooting incident at Bondi Beach occurred amidst a documented increase in antisemitic incidents within Australia, particularly since the Hamas-led assault on Israel on October 7, 2023, and the subsequent conflict in Gaza.
Antisemitic Incidents in Australia
The Executive Council of Australian Jewry documented over 3,700 anti-Jewish incidents in the country during the two years following October 7, 2023. This represents a five-fold increase compared to the preceding decade. Incidents have included anti-Israel graffiti and the arson of a Melbourne synagogue.
Global Context and Concerns
Other nations have also experienced a rise in antisemitic attacks, albeit not as pronounced as in Australia. Jewish leaders convened in Sydney to address these concerns. Marina Rosenberg, a senior vice president for international affairs at the Anti-Defamation League, stated earlier this month that the situation in Australia reflects a global trend that poses a threat to Jewish safety and democratic stability.
Government Allegations and Bondi Beach Attack
The Australian government previously attributed arson attacks on a Melbourne synagogue and a Sydney kosher food company last year to Iran.
On Sunday, two individuals, identified by authorities as a father and son, opened fire during a Hanukkah celebration at Sydney's Bondi Beach. The incident resulted in 15 fatalities and multiple injuries. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese characterized the event as an act of antisemitic terrorism, specifically targeting Jewish Australians.
Response and Initiatives
Following the attack, major cities globally increased security for their own Hanukkah events. Australia's Jewish population is approximately 117,000, comprising less than 0.5% of the national population.
Prime Minister Albanese pledged a national unity response to the Bondi Beach attack. In 2024, Australia established a special envoy to combat antisemitism, implementing a campaign that included initiatives on college campuses and within the media. This plan received criticism regarding the potential conflation of antisemitism with criticism of Israel's actions in Gaza, a concern also noted by the University of New South Wales' Australian Human Rights Institute.
Recognition of Palestine and International Reactions
In September, Australia joined Canada and the United Kingdom in recognizing the state of Palestine, aiming to advance a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Following the Bondi Beach shooting, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Australia's recognition of a Palestinian state "pours fuel on the antisemitic fire."