An extensive investigation in Australia focusing on antisemitism in the aftermath of a tragic incident at a Hanukkah celebration revealed on Monday that a surge in hatred has left the Jewish community in Australia feeling anxious and exposed.
The incident, where fifteen individuals lost their lives during a shooting at the Bondi Beach event in December, was allegedly carried out by Sajid and Naveed Akram using legally owned firearms in a country known for stringent gun controls. The authorities linked the attack to the Islamic State group, following a series of antisemitic offenses in Australia.
The Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion, a top-tier inquiry in Australia, commenced public hearings in Sydney to delve into the extent and nature of antisemitism in Australian institutions and society. Future hearings scheduled for later this year will explore additional topics before the final report is published in December.
Commissioner Virginia Bell highlighted the concerning rise in antisemitism in Australia and its correlation with events in the Middle East, emphasizing the need to grasp how swiftly these events can trigger hostility towards Jewish Australians solely based on their faith.
Witnesses at the inquiry, all Jewish Australians, recounted their encounters with hatred, with some opting to use pseudonyms due to safety concerns. One family member of a Bondi attack victim shared an incident where she faced verbal abuse while wearing a Star of David necklace, reflecting the ongoing sense of insecurity within the community.
The escalation of antisemitic incidents globally, including in Australia, has led to heightened fear among the Jewish population, who previously had not experienced such levels of threat. The increase in hate-fueled attacks prompted a shift in security measures at Jewish institutions, with individuals now feeling the constant need for protection in public spaces.
The inquiry also revealed a growing profile of antisemitism in Australia even before the Bondi tragedy, with attacks on schools, businesses, and places of worship. The government’s identification of Iran orchestrating some of these crimes further fueled concerns within the community, prompting discussions on potential relocations abroad among affected individuals.
The investigation highlighted the urgency for national gun law reforms following the Bondi incident, where the assailants legally owned the weapons used in the attack. One of the perpetrators was killed at the scene, while the other faces multiple charges, including terrorism and murder counts. The aftermath of the massacre has sparked discussions on enhancing security protocols and addressing the root causes of antisemitism in Australia.