Agudath Israel of America is heartbroken and horrified by the deadly antisemitic terror attack in Sydney, Australia. The terrorists opened fire on a Chanukah celebration, killing 12 – Hashem Yikom Damam, may Hashem avenge their blood- and injuring many more.
Agudath Israel of America mourns with the Australian Jewish community and with Jews the world over who are shaken by this act of hate. We are praying for the swift recovery of all of the injured. We also extend our deepest sympathies to the grieving families of the victims. HaMakom yenachem eschem b’soch she’ar aveilei Tzion vYrushalayim – may Hashem comfort you among the mourners of Tzion and Yerushalayim.
This heinous crime underscores the urgent need for governments and law enforcement worldwide to take stronger action to protect Jewish communities. Hatred and violence against Jews cannot be tolerated, and we call on leaders across the globe to stand up forcefully against this rising tide of antisemitism.
One of the organizers of the Chanukah celebration event in Sydney was Rabbi Eli Schlanger Hy”D, a local Chabad Shaliach who was among those murdered today. His last post was his response to rising antisemitism, encouraging people to celebrate Chanukah. In the face of hate, Rabbi Schlanger said, “we should be more Jewish, act more Jewish and appear more Jewish.” His holy words are the legacy he has left for us all.
May Hashem protect us from the evil designs of all our enemies.