Media Releases

The Australia/Israel & Jewish Affairs Council (AIJAC) is horrified by the appalling terrorist attack at Bondi this evening.

AIJAC Executive Director Colin Rubenstein said, “We are horrified by what has unfolded. Our immediate thoughts are with those killed and injured and their families, and with all those who witnessed this horrendous crime.”

Dr Rubenstein added, “We have warned for years that the unceasing antisemitic vitriol on our streets would evolve into antisemitic violence if left unchecked. We have warned that verbal abuse becomes graffiti, becomes arson, becomes physical violence, becomes murder. We have begged our political leaders to stop offering just sentiments and start providing real, effective action. And now we have murdered Jews at a Jewish community function.”

“This is the outcome of the calls we have heard far too often at marches through our cities to globalise the intifada and that all Zionists are terrorists. Our governments and authorities must act to end this hateful incitement.

“This is not just a terrible day for the Jewish community, for Bondi, and for Sydney but for all of Australia, and for the values we hold dear, that are the bedrock of what for so long has been our inclusive, harmonious society.”

AIJAC will release a further statement as details emerge.