Australia to Invite Israeli President Following Bondi Beach Attack

In a powerful gesture of solidarity, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced that the country’s Governor-General will formally invite Israeli President Isaac Herzog to visit Australia “as soon as possible,” following the devastating terror attack at Sydney’s Bondi Beach on the first night of Chanukah.

The invitation came during a phone call between the two leaders, in which Albanese expressed his “profound shock and dismay” over the massacre that claimed 15 lives and injured at least 40 others. The attack targeted a Jewish celebration, casting a shadow over one of Australia’s most iconic public spaces and exposing a deepening wave of antisemitic violence that has surged globally in recent months.

President Herzog confirmed his intention to accept the invitation, expressing appreciation not only to Prime Minister Albanese but also to the president of the Zionist Federation of Australia, who had also extended an invitation. According to Herzog’s office, the president was “deeply horrified” by the attack and emphasized the urgent need to confront the rise in antisemitism, jihadist extremism, and hate-fueled violence with “all legal measures.”

In a heartfelt message, Herzog extended his “profound condolences” to the families of the victims and wished the injured a swift and full recovery. His remarks underscored the emotional weight of the moment, as Jewish communities worldwide continue to reel from both physical attacks and rhetorical assaults.

The expected visit by Herzog would mark a pivotal moment in Israel-Australia relations, highlighting shared democratic values and the mutual commitment to combat extremism. It would also serve as a significant show of support to Australian Jewry, whose sense of safety has been shaken by this latest tragedy.

With antisemitic attacks escalating globally since the October 7 Hamas massacre in southern Israel, leaders like President Herzog are reinforcing a critical message: that Jewish life must not only be protected but embraced and defended with conviction.

Israel’s connection with Jewish communities around the world remains strong and unwavering. Through diplomacy, solidarity, and moral clarity, the Jewish state continues to stand by its people wherever they are.

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