Dutch leaders condemn attack on Hanukkah celebration in Bondi Beach, Australia

Following Sunday's deadly shooting at Bondi Beach in Sydney, which reportedly targeted a Hanukkah celebration, Dutch politicians and officials expressed shock and solidarity. At least twelve people, including one of the two attackers, were killed, and twenty-nine others were hospitalized, including a child and two police officers. Australian authorities are treating the incident as a terrorist act.

Caretaker Prime Minister Dick Schoof offered condolences and support to Australia on X, calling it “a black day for Australia” and condemning the attack as a “cowardly act." He wrote, “Shocking and disturbing reports from Australia about many dead and injured after a terrible attack in Sydney. Our thoughts go out to all victims and their families of this cowardly act.”

Foreign Minister David van Weel also expressed solidarity with Australia on X: “shocking reports from Bondi Beach, Sydney. My thoughts are with the victims, their loved ones, and everyone affected by this ruthless attack during Hanukkah celebrations. We are monitoring the situation closely. The Netherlands stands with our Australian friends, @SenatorWong.”

D66 leader Rob Jetten stated, “Jews must be able to celebrate their faith everywhere freely and without fear.” GroenLinks-PvdA leader Jesse Klaver emphasized that “the fight against antisemitism, hate, and violence is a global duty,” while ChristenUnie leader Mirjam Bikker echoed the call for religious freedom and safety.

VVD leader Dilan Yeşilgöz described the event as devastating for the Jewish community: “What should have been a celebration of a festival of lights has become deeply dark for the Jewish community around Bondi Beach. Words fail.” Geert Wilders labeled the attack “an act of extreme barbarism and antisemitism,” claiming that growing anti-Israel sentiment among left-liberal politicians, media, and academics fuels global antisemitism.

The National Coordinator for Counterterrorism and Security (NCTV) also reacted with concern. NCTV head Wieke Vink said, “Even in the Netherlands, vigilance is required.” The Dutch terror threat level remains at 4 out of 5, reflecting a real risk of attack and prompting visible and invisible security measures at specific locations.

The Central Jewish Consultative Body (CJO) in the Netherlands called the shooting “shocking and appalling,” highlighting the global climate of violence and fear toward Jews. “The ongoing attacks on synagogues and Jews worldwide, combined with daily demonstrations glorifying terror and murder, create an unacceptable climate of violence and fear to be openly Jewish,” the CJO said.