New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday strongly condemned the terrorist attack in Australia that targeted members of the Jewish community celebrating the first day of Hanukkah at Bondi Beach. Expressing deep sorrow over the loss of lives, he conveyed India’s condolences to the bereaved families and reiterated the country’s unwavering support in the global fight against terrorism.
In a post on X, the Prime Minister said, “I strongly condemn the horrific terrorist attack carried out today at Bondi Beach, Australia, targeting people celebrating the first day of the Jewish festival of Hanukkah. On behalf of the people of India, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones. India stands in solidarity with the people of Australia in this moment of grief. India has zero tolerance for terrorism and supports the fight against all its forms and manifestations.”
The Prime Minister’s statement followed a deadly shooting near a Jewish gathering at Bondi Beach in Sydney, in which at least 12 people, including one of the attackers, were killed. The incident also left 29 people injured, among them two police officers.
According to reports by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) News, a senior law enforcement official identified one of the gunmen as Naveed Akram from Sydney’s Bonnyrigg area. Authorities stated that while there is no longer an active threat, members of the public have been advised to stay away from the affected area.
New South Wales (NSW) Police have officially declared the incident a terrorist attack. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese convened an emergency National Security Meeting and described the shooting as a “devastating terrorist incident.”
Addressing the nation, Albanese said, “This afternoon, Australia has witnessed a devastating terrorist attack at Bondi during the Hanukkah by the Sea celebration.” He emphasised that the assault was a targeted attack against Jewish Australians on a day meant for joy, faith, and celebration.
Calling the incident an act of “evil antisemitism and terrorism,” Albanese said it had struck at the very heart of the nation. “An attack on Jewish Australians is an attack on every Australian,” he asserted.
The Australian Prime Minister further stated that law enforcement and security agencies are working relentlessly to identify and apprehend all those connected to the attack and assured that verified information would be shared promptly with the public.
“Every Australian tonight is devastated by this attack on our way of life. There is absolutely no place for hatred, violence, or terrorism in our country,” Albanese said. He added that the nation would respond with unity, stressing that Australians from all backgrounds would stand together in support of the Jewish community.
Earlier, the NSW Police Force confirmed that two individuals were taken into custody at Bondi Beach. However, the police operation remains ongoing, and authorities continue to urge the public to avoid the area and strictly follow police instructions.
With inputs from IANS