Coalition for Jewish Values (CJV), representing over 2,500 traditional, Orthodox rabbis in American and global public policy, today deplored the horrific murders of Jewish celebrants at a Chanukah party in Sydney, Australia. CJV noted that this atrocity came as part of a sustained and increasingly lethal pattern. The failure to confront antisemitic extremism decisively—through enforcement, deterrence, and moral clarity—has placed Jewish citizens in Australia and elsewhere at unacceptable risk.

Rabbi David Freilich, OAM, President of CJV Australia, issued the following statement:

We are horrified and deeply saddened by the tragic terrorist attack, targeting our Jewish community during the Chanukah celebration on Bondi Beach. This act of savagery and hate threatens the very fabric of our society. We urge the Federal Government to strengthen visa vetting processes to prevent those who spread hate and violence from entering our country. We call on the Prime Minister and government to take decisive action against antisemitism, prioritising the safety and well-being of all citizens.

With blessings of condolence to all fellow Australian citizens at this tragic moment in our nations history. Our thoughts and prayers go to those in Sydney who are grieving and suffering at this terrible time.

Photo: Rabbi Eli Schlanger, Chabad emissary, among the victims in the terror attack in Sydney.