Canberra / Dec 15 (GeokHub) Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is under heightened diplomatic pressure from Israeli leaders following a deadly shooting at a Hanukkah celebration on Bondi Beach that targeted the Jewish community, killing at least 16 people and leaving dozens wounded. The attack — described by Albanese as an “act of evil antisemitism” — has renewed international scrutiny of domestic antisemitism and government policy.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly blamed Albanese’s government for fostering an environment that “pours fuel on the antisemitic fire,” citing Canberra’s support for Palestinian statehood and policies he says have emboldened anti-Jewish hatred in Australia. Netanyahu’s criticism comes as Jewish leaders and community representatives press for stronger action against rising antisemitism and hate crimes.
Albanese has condemned the attack in the strongest terms and convened a national security meeting to address the tragedy, calling on Australians to unite in the face of terrorism and hate. He has vowed to eradicate the hate that fueled the shooting and has emphasised that an attack on Jewish Australians is an attack on all Australians. The prime minister also reiterated his government’s ongoing efforts to combat antisemitism, which include recent initiatives to criminalise hate speech and increase security funding for vulnerable communities.
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Domestically, opposition politicians and Jewish community leaders have echoed concerns about rising antisemitism and urged stronger, more comprehensive measures, including implementing recommendations from Australia’s special envoy on antisemitism. Critics have highlighted warning signs in recent years and called for more proactive policies to counter extremist rhetoric and protect minority communities.
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