Outgoing New York City Mayor Eric Adams described the tragic terrorist incident at Australia’s Bondi Beach as “a real-life application of the globalization of the intifada.” In light of this, he, along with the city’s police chief, shared plans aimed at enhancing security for Hanukkah events.
With just over two weeks remaining in his term, Adams and NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch unveiled increased protective measures for Jewish Life events across the city, particularly for Hanukkah celebrations, attributing their decision to the recent attack that left at least 15 individuals shot.
During his address, the mayor faltered at times, mistakenly referring to Australia as “Austria” multiple times. He reiterated that the “Global Intifada” movement has contributed to the conditions that lead to such attacks.
“That attack in Sydney truly exemplifies the globalization of the intifada. We witnessed it in action there,” Adams stated.
“This incident wasn’t random. It stemmed from Islamic extremism. We absolutely need to acknowledge that,” he remarked.
Commissioner Tisch, who is of Jewish heritage, felt compelled to speak out and labeled the attack as part of a broader assault on Jewish existence.
“We’re seeing an atmosphere where hatred transcends mere words and manifests into gruesome acts of violence. The Jewish community is facing a continuous, adaptable threat that feels very real today. It has a global dimension. This is why the NYPD is prioritizing prevention. We’re reconfiguring our presence to tackle the danger,” Tisch explained.
She pointed out that the NYPD had already begun preparations for public menorah lighting ahead of Hanukkah, even prior to the attack.
People should anticipate an “increased uniformed presence, specialized patrols, heavy weapon teams, and counter-terrorism resources” at many events and synagogues. “A bomb disposal squad will also be on standby if required,” she added somberly.
“Following the incident in Australia, we heightened our efforts even further,” Tisch noted.
Mayor-elect Zoran Mamdani also condemned the attack, labeling it as “a despicable act of anti-Semitic terrorism” in a post on X platform early Sunday morning.
“Far too many individuals don’t feel secure expressing their faith or worshipping in a synagogue without armed security nearby. The attack in Bondi reflects the fears many Jews have about what could occur in their own neighborhoods,” Mamdani expressed.
He committed to ensuring the safety of Jewish New Yorkers and urged everyone to move past this violent occurrence.
Hundreds gathered for the Hanukkah by the Sea event at Bondi Beach on Saturday afternoon, where 15 people were shot and 40 others were injured.
The youngest victim was just 10 years old, while one of the oldest was a Holocaust survivor shielding his wife during the attack.
The assailants were a father and son, both killed by police, whereas Naveed Akram, a 24-year-old, remains critically injured. The 50-year-old father was confirmed dead.
