PM Rabuka condemns Bondi Beach antisemitic attack, offers Fiji’s solidarity

Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade Sitiveni Rabuka has strongly condemned an antisemitic terrorist attack at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia.

The attack yesterday, which targeted a community celebration, left at least 16 people dead and 42 others injured. Australian authorities have classified the incident as a terrorist attack motivated by antisemitism.

The shooting occurred during Chanukah by the Sea, a public ceremony organised by Chabad of Bondi, where more than 1,000 people had gathered.

Two armed individuals opened fire. One was killed during a police response, while the other was apprehended in a critical condition. Police later discovered improvised explosive devices at the scene.

According to an AAP report, New South Wales Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon said the two men were related.

“The offenders are a 50-year-old and a 24-year-old male, who are father and son. The 50-year-old is deceased,” he told reporters.

He said the father had held a firearms licence for 10 years and owned six guns, all of which had been accounted for.

Speaking on behalf of the Government and the people of Fiji, Mr Rabuka offered his heartfelt condolences to the families of those killed and wished the injured a speedy recovery.

He said Fiji, “our Vuvale”, stood firmly in solidarity with the families of the victims and the survivors during what he described as a sorrowful time.

Mr Rabuka also commended the actions of Australian police officers and bystanders, whose bravery helped save lives.

He reiterated Fiji’s commitment to zero tolerance for terrorism and hate, saying violence and inhumane acts must be condemned in all forms.

Mr Rabuka confirmed that he had spoken personally with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to convey Fiji’s solidarity and support.