RSL Condemns Cowardly Bondi Terrorist Attack
MEDIA RELEASE
The Returned & Services League of Australia utterly condemns the cowardly terrorist attack on Jewish families celebrating Hanukkah at Bondi Beach and extends its profound condolences to those killed and injured, their families, and the entire Jewish community.
RSL Australia National President Peter Tinley said the targeted slaughter of innocent Australians, including children, a Rabbi, and the wounding of two police officers who ran toward danger, represented an assault on the very values our veterans have defended for more than a century.
"This horrific act of anti-Semitic terrorism strikes at the heart of everything Australia stands for," Mr Tinley said.
"Our Defence men and women serve so that every Australian, regardless of faith, background or belief, can live freely, worship openly, and gather peacefully with family and community. On Sunday evening, that sacred compact was violated in the most brutal way imaginable.
"From Gallipoli to Afghanistan, Australians of all faiths have stood shoulder to shoulder in defence of our nation. Jewish Australians have served with extraordinary distinction in every conflict, from General Sir John Monash, whose brilliant leadership on the Western Front embodied the courage and ingenuity that defines the ANZAC spirit, to Private Gregory Sher of 1st Commando Regiment, who made the ultimate sacrifice in Afghanistan in 2009.
"The ANZAC spirit is not merely about commemorating the past. It is a living commitment to stand together against hatred, tyranny and terror. An attack on Jewish Australians is an attack on all Australians. An attack on families celebrating their faith is an attack on the freedom every veteran has fought to protect."
Mr Tinley paid tribute to Ahmed al-Ahmed, the civilian who risked his life to disarm one of the attackers, and to the first responders, police officers, and members of the North Bondi RSL Sub-Branch who provided immediate assistance to victims.
"In the midst of unspeakable horror, ordinary Australians demonstrated extraordinary courage, and Ahemd al-Ahmed did exactly what the Anzacs did on the beaches of Gallipoli – he bravely ran towards the sound of the guns," Mr Tinley said.
"To our Jewish community: you are part of the fabric of this nation. Your contribution to Australia's story, including your service in uniform enriches us all. RSL Australia stands with you in grief, and we will stand with you in the work ahead to ensure hatred never prevails on our shores.
"To veterans and their families who may be deeply affected by these events: please reach out. We are here for you."
The RSL President called on all Australians to reject antisemitism, Islamophobia, and all forms of hatred.
"This is not the Australia that our veterans fought and died for. We must honour their sacrifice by standing united as they stood united against those who would tear us apart."
Support Services: Crisis support is available for veterans and their families through Open Arms. It is free, available 24/7, and confidential: 1800 011 046