A deadly gun attack during Hanukkah celebrations in Sydney has triggered outrage in Israel and widespread condemnation across the Middle East. Israeli leaders criticised Australia’s leadership, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu linking the violence to Canberra’s recognition of a Palestinian state, a claim rejected by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Authorities confirmed the suspects had previously been known to intelligence agencies but were not considered threats.
The attack, which killed at least 15 people and injured dozens at Bondi Beach, is Australia’s deadliest shooting in nearly three decades. Middle East nations including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Jordan and Oman strongly condemned the violence and offered condolences. Australia is now reviewing its gun laws amid renewed concerns over anti-Semitic attacks.
