Trump Urges American Jews to Celebrate Hanukkah Proudly After Deadly Bondi Beach Attack
SYDNEY, Australia — In the wake of a devastating terrorist attack at a Hanukkah celebration on Bondi Beach that claimed 11 lives and injured dozens more, former President Donald Trump called on American Jews to “celebrate proudly” and not be intimidated by violence targeting their community. The attack, which occurred during the “Hanukkah by the Sea” event, has sent shockwaves through Australia and the global Jewish community.
Speaking to Fox News on December 14, 2025, Trump emphasized resilience and pride among Jewish Americans, stating, “Celebrate proudly – be proud of who you are.” His remarks came as Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the mass shooting as a “targeted attack on Jewish Australians,” declaring that “there is no place for this hate, violence and terrorism in our nation.” Albanese vowed to eradicate such threats, underscoring the attack as an assault on the very fabric of Australian society.
The incident unfolded at a public Hanukkah event on Bondi Beach, a popular Sydney locale, where a gunman opened fire on attendees. Police confirmed at least 11 fatalities, including a local rabbi, and dozens of injuries. Authorities praised a bystander, identified as a Muslim man, who courageously disarmed the attacker, preventing further loss of life.
At a government meeting in Dimona, Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticized the Australian government for what he described as insufficient action against rising antisemitism. Netanyahu referenced an August letter to Albanese warning that governmental policies were fostering an environment conducive to hostility against Jews. “History will not forgive hesitation and weakness. It will honor action and strength,” Netanyahu said, calling for decisive measures to combat antisemitism.
Yael Eckstein, president of the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews, described the attack as a wake-up call for the global Jewish community. Speaking on Fox & Friends Weekend, she noted, “Terror doesn’t stop in America or in Europe or in Australia. It’s not only targeting the Jews, it’s also targeting the Christians. The answer to this darkness is light.”
In response to the attack, U.S. lawmakers have also voiced concern. Senator Dave McCormick urged America to stand strong against political and antisemitic violence, while Senator Lindsey Graham called for the West to adopt tougher stances on radical extremism following the incident.
The attack at Bondi Beach is part of a troubling rise in antisemitic incidents globally. According to data from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, hate crimes against Jewish communities have seen an uptick in recent years, reflecting a broader trend of increasing antisemitism worldwide.
Australian authorities continue to investigate the motives and background of the attacker, with law enforcement agencies working closely with international partners to prevent further incidents. The Department of Homeland Security has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding Jewish communities in the United States, emphasizing vigilance during religious holidays.
The Bondi Beach tragedy has also sparked discussions about the role of governments in combating hate. The Australian government faces mounting pressure to implement stronger policies to address antisemitism and protect minority communities. Meanwhile, advocacy groups such as the Anti-Defamation League continue to call for comprehensive education and enforcement efforts to counteract hate-driven violence.
As the Jewish community worldwide mourns the victims, leaders and citizens alike are rallying to ensure that celebrations of Hanukkah and other cultural traditions remain moments of light and hope amid darkness. The resilience urged by Trump and echoed by global figures reflects a broader determination to confront hatred with unity and pride.
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