JERUSALEM (FN) Israel vowed swift retaliation Sunday after the deadly attack on Jewish worshippers at Sydney’s Bondi Beach, calling the massacre “an assault on the Jewish people everywhere.” The pledge came as global outrage mounted over the shooting that left 16 dead and dozens wounded during a Hanukkah celebration.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel would “respond decisively” to the killings, describing the attack as part of a rising tide of antisemitism worldwide. “The murder of Jews in Sydney is not only an attack on our brothers and sisters in Australia, it is an attack on all Jews,” Netanyahu said in a televised statement.
The Bondi Beach shooting, carried out by Sajid Akram and his son Naveed, was declared a terrorist incident by Australian authorities. Witnesses said the attackers deliberately targeted Jewish families gathered for the holiday, sparing non-Jewish beachgoers. Sajid was killed during the assault, while Naveed was captured alive.
Israel’s defense minister, Yoav Gallant, said the country’s intelligence agencies were working with Australian counterparts to determine whether the attackers had ties to international extremist networks. “We will pursue those who inspire, fund, or organize such acts of terror,” Gallant said.
The promise of retaliation has raised questions about what form Israel’s response might take. Analysts suggested options could range from covert operations against extremist groups abroad to diplomatic pressure on governments accused of tolerating antisemitic violence.
Jewish leaders in Australia welcomed Israel’s pledge, saying it underscored the global nature of the threat. “This was not just an Australian tragedy, it was a Jewish tragedy,” said Jeremy Leibler, president of the Zionist Federation of Australia. “Israel’s commitment to stand with us is deeply reassuring.”
At the same time, some international observers urged caution, warning that retaliation could inflame tensions further. Human rights groups called for a coordinated global effort to combat antisemitism rather than unilateral military action.
In Sydney, vigils continued as families mourned the victims. Hospitals remained overwhelmed with the wounded, including children. Flags across Australia were lowered to half-staff, and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese pledged to strengthen security for Jewish institutions nationwide.
The attack has reignited debate in Israel about the safety of Jewish communities abroad. Opposition leaders urged the government to expand programs that help diaspora Jews relocate to Israel if they feel unsafe. “Bondi Beach is a reminder that antisemitism knows no borders,” said opposition leader Yair Lapid.
As investigations continue, Israel’s vow of retaliation has added a new dimension to the tragedy. For many Jews worldwide, the Bondi Beach massacre has transformed Hanukkah a festival of light into a moment of darkness, now shadowed by the prospect of global reprisals.
