Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday strongly condemned the terrorist attack at Bondi Beach in Australia that targeted people celebrating the first day of the Jewish festival of Hanukkah.
In a post on X, PM Modi said, “Strongly condemn the ghastly terrorist attack carried out today at Bondi Beach, Australia, targeting people celebrating the first day of the Jewish festival of Hanukkah. On behalf of the people of India, I extend my sincere condolences to the families who lost their loved ones. We stand in solidarity with the people of Australia in this hour of grief. India has zero tolerance towards terrorism and supports the fight against all forms and manifestations of terrorism.”
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also condemned the attack, expressing solidarity with the victims and their families. “Condemn in the strongest terms the terror attack on Hanukkah celebrations in Bondi Beach, Australia. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families,” he said in a post on X.
Jaishankar also spoke to Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong on Monday. “Conveyed our deepest condolences about the Bondi beach terrorist attack and offered our fullest support,” said the EAM.
According to Australian authorities, the attack took place near Bondi Beach in Sydney during a Jewish community event marking the first night of Hanukkah. At least 15 people, including one of the attackers, were killed, while several others, including police officers, were injured. The incident has been officially declared a terrorist attack by New South Wales Police.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the shooting as a “devastating terrorist incident” and a targeted attack on Jewish Australians. “An attack on Jewish Australians is an attack on every Australian,” he said, calling it an act of “evil antisemitism and terrorism” that struck at the heart of the nation. Albanese chaired an emergency National Security Meeting and said security agencies were working to identify all those linked to the attack.
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns said the incident deliberately targeted Sydney’s Jewish community, turning what should have been a night of peace and celebration into tragedy. He also praised a bystander who reportedly disarmed one of the attackers, calling him a “genuine hero” whose bravery saved many lives.
The attack has drawn strong reactions from leaders worldwide, with messages of support pouring in for Australia and its Jewish community, even as the country mourns the victims of one of the deadliest terror incidents in recent years.
(With agency inputs)
