Rabbi Condemns Inaction After Shooting at Hanukkah Celebration in Australia

Following a tragic shooting that marred Hanukkah festivities at Bondi Beach in Australia, leaving 40 injured and at least 15 dead, New York’s senior rabbi has voiced his condemnation of the Australian authorities’ inaction. Among the casualties were two well-known rabbis, underscoring the severity of the attack.

Rabbi Yehuda Krinsky from Chabad-Lubavitch expressed concern that the attack, carried out by a father and son duo, is indicative of a rising wave of anti-Semitism that Australia has failed to adequately address. “We learned that Rabbi Yaakov Levitan, like Rabbi Eli Schlanger, also succumbed to his injuries. May his memory be a blessing,” Krinsky remarked.

He further noted that Jews globally are feeling both anxious and resolute. “The gradual acceptance of anti-Semitic sentiments has had direct and now deadly outcomes. This cannot continue unchecked,” he stated.

The shooting, which unfolded on December 14, took place during a large Hanukkah event near Campbell Parade, prompting police to classify it as a terrorist incident. Reports suggest that an improvised explosive device was discovered in one of the assailants’ vehicles.

“Authorities in Australia must respond swiftly to eliminate both the behavior and rhetoric that foster anti-Semitism,” Krinsky insisted.

The elderly assailant was shot dead at the scene, while his son was taken into custody in critical condition. Rabbi Krinsky, who had witnessed unrest during an arson incident at a Melbourne synagogue earlier that year, shared that many within Australia’s Jewish community are increasingly fearful as incendiary rhetoric gains traction.

“It seems the response from authorities isn’t strong enough, leaving many feeling uneasy,” he shared, highlighting the widespread anxiety among Jews in Australia.

Rabbi Schlanger, aged 41, was among the early identified victims. He worked as an assistant rabbi at Chabad of Bondi and played a significant role in organizing community events.

“Rabbi Schlanger was one of the victims of this horrific act,” Krinsky explained. “He had strong ties to the U.S., having studied there and maintaining family connections. Even though the events took place far away, we feel a profound sense of closeness this Hanukkah.”

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the incident as an “act of pure evil,” expressing his condolences to the families affected by the shooting.

“We must honor those lost by promoting Jewish culture, pride, and visibility, and let their memories inspire acts of kindness and goodwill,” he added, emphasizing that despite the attack, Jewish communities will continue to shine brighter than ever during this festival of lights.