Rabbi Yehuda Krinsky Condemns Australia’s Response to Bondi Beach Hanukkah Shooting Amid Rising Antisemitism
SYDNEY, Australia — The recent mass shooting at a Hanukkah celebration on Bondi Beach has drawn sharp condemnation from Rabbi Yehuda Krinsky of the Chabad-Lubavitch World Headquarters in New York, who criticized Australia’s perceived tolerance of escalating antisemitic violence. The tragic attack, which left at least 15 people dead—including two prominent rabbis with deep ties to the Jewish community—and wounded 40 others, has spotlighted growing concerns over antisemitism in Australia and the government’s response to it.
The shooting occurred on December 14, 2025, during a “Chanukah by the Sea” event near Campbell Parade at Bondi Beach, Sydney. Two gunmen, a father and son, opened fire on attendees before police fatally shot the elder assailant and took the son into custody in critical condition. Authorities are investigating the incident as a terrorist attack, having also discovered improvised explosive devices in one suspect’s vehicle.
Rabbi Krinsky, who witnessed firsthand the unease within the Australian Jewish community during a synagogue arson attack in Melbourne earlier this year, described the Bondi Beach shooting as a grim reflection of a climate of rising antisemitism that Australian authorities have failed to adequately confront. “Every incremental escalation of antisemitic language that is tolerated has a direct, and now, deadly, consequence, and must no longer go unchecked,” he said.
Among the victims were Rabbi Eli Schlanger and Rabbi Yaakov Levitan, both leaders within the Chabad community, whose deaths have sent shockwaves through Jewish communities worldwide. Rabbi Krinsky implored Australian officials to act swiftly and decisively to stamp out antisemitic acts and rhetoric that normalize hatred and violence. “Australian authorities need to act with alacrity and stamp out both the acts and the rhetoric that normalize antisemitism,” he emphasized.
The attack comes amid a documented rise in antisemitic incidents across Australia, including the July 2025 arson attack on the East Melbourne Hebrew Congregation, which Rabbi Krinsky also referenced. The community’s growing sense of vulnerability has been echoed by various leaders and commentators who warn that the threat of antisemitism is intensifying.
In response to the tragedy, Australian law enforcement and counterterrorism agencies have increased security measures and launched thorough investigations into the attack. The Australian Federal Police are coordinating efforts to identify any broader networks or motivations behind the shooting.
Experts note that antisemitic violence often escalates in environments where hateful rhetoric is left unchecked. The Anti-Defamation League has documented a surge in antisemitic incidents globally, underscoring the urgent need for governments to implement robust policies to protect vulnerable communities.
Internationally, the attack has drawn widespread condemnation. The U.S. Department of State issued a statement reaffirming support for Australia’s Jewish community and condemning antisemitic violence. Similarly, the United Nations has called for global cooperation to combat hate crimes and terrorism.
As the Jewish community mourns the loss of its leaders and members, calls for stronger governmental action and community solidarity continue to grow. Rabbi Krinsky’s message resonates as a stark reminder that unchecked antisemitism can lead to devastating consequences, urging authorities worldwide to prioritize the safety and dignity of all citizens.
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