Australian Prime Minister Condemns Bondi Hanukkah Terror Attack

The National Security Committee was convened

as a matter of urgency, and we have just come

from it. This afternoon, there has been a devastating

terrorist incident at Bondi, at the Hanukkah

by the Sea celebration. This is 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. An

attack on Jewish Australians is an attack on

every Australian. And every Australian tonight

will be, like me, devastated on this attack

on our way of life. There is no place for this

hate, violence, and terrorism in our nation.

Let me be clear: we will eradicate it. Amidst

this vile act of violence and hate will emerge

a moment of national unity, where Australians

across the board will embrace their fellow Australians

of Jewish faith at this dark moment for our

nation. Our police and security agencies are

working to determine anyone associated with

this outrage. Our agencies will provide you

with factual updates as quickly as possible

as they continue to emerge. 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.

Australians have had their lives cruelly stolen,

and many have been injured. For all Australians,

our first thoughts are with those in the terrible

early hours of their grief. We are also thinking

of everyone being treated for their injuries,

and many of whom are alive right now because

of the courage and quick action of the New South

Wales Police and the first responders who rushed

to their aid. As well as the courage of everyday

Australians who, without hesitating, put themselves

in danger in order to keep their fellow Australians

safe. We have seen Australians today run towards

danger in order to help others. These Australians

are heroes, and their bravery has saved lives.

As Prime Minister, I say on behalf of all Australians

to the Jewish community: we stand with you,

we embrace you. And we reaffirm tonight that

you have every right to be proud of who you

are and what you believe. You have the right

to worship and study and live and work in peace

and safety. And you enrich us as a nation. You

should never have to endure the loss that you

have suffered today. You should never know the

fear that you know tonight. We will dedicate

every resource required to making sure you are

safe and protected. You are Australian, and

all Australians are with you today and every

day. My fellow Australians, I say tonight that

there are nights that tear at our nation's soul.

In this moment of darkness, we must be each

other's light. Hold on to the true character

of the country that we love. Australia is stronger

than the cowards who attacked innocent people

today. Australia is braver than those who seek

to make us afraid. Australia will never submit

to division, violence, or hatred. We will see

justice done. And we will come through this

together.