World Jewish leaders express solidarity after Sydney terror attack

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World Jewish Congress president Ronald Lauder expressed deep shock and sadness following the deadly terror attack at a Chanukah celebration in Sydney on Sunday.

“My immediate thoughts are with every Jew across Australia and around the world in this painful moment. No community should ever fear coming together to celebrate its faith, traditions, or identity,” Lauder said.

“Make no mistake, this will not break us. We will continue to stand proudly, united against all forms of violence and hate, and in unwavering solidarity with Jewish communities everywhere.”

World Jewish Congress Israel president Sylvan Adams described the attack as part of a “global war against the Jews”.

“I am heartbroken and outraged by the horrific attack on the Jewish community in Bondi Beach during a Chanukah celebration,” Adams said.

“Our Australian Jewish brothers and sisters have endured months of escalating hostility and intimidation. This violent assault is the tragic result of an environment in which antisemitism has been allowed to grow unchecked.”

Adams called on Australian leaders to confront the climate of hate with urgency and absolute moral clarity.

“The light of Chanukah will continue to shine, even in the face of terror,” he said.

Maccabi World Union extended its deepest condolences to the Australian Jewish community.

“We are deeply saddened that this tragedy occurred on the first night of Hanukkah, a time that is usually marked by togetherness and the lighting of candles in Jewish homes and communities,” said a joint statement from Maccabi World Union president Michael Siegal, chairman Amir Peled, Maccabiah chairman Assaf Goren and chief executive Roy Hessing.

“The Maccabi movement is built on the values of unity, mutual responsibility, and the unbreakable bond between Jewish communities worldwide. In moments of sorrow and crisis, these values stand stronger than ever.”

International March of the Living said the attack was not an isolated act of violence.

“The hate marches on Australian streets, the relentless antisemitic attacks, the normalization of antisemitic discourse, and the baseless accusations of genocide against Israel have all created the conditions that enabled this antisemitic act of terror,” the organisation said.

“For too long, Australia has looked away as hatred of Jews intensified. Today, that silence has led to an atrocity whose full scope is still emerging.”

The Movement for Progressive Judaism in the United Kingdom also expressed solidarity with the Australian Jewish community.

“Violence at a moment intended for light, gathering and Jewish pride is profoundly shocking, and our hearts are with all those affected,” said rabbis Charley Baginsky and Josh Levy.

“Chanukah speaks of resilience and the refusal to be driven into the shadows, but no one should have to summon that strength in response to violence at a communal celebration.”