Australian labor unions on Monday joined in the condemnation of the “deeply disturbing” terror attack at Sydney’s Bondi Beach that killed at least 15 people and injured another 38. Politicians in Canberra, meanwhile, are moving to put in place tougher national gun laws after the horrific attack.
The Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU) said it “condemned antisemitism” as it expressed “sorrow and heartbreak” over the incident.
The violence erupted at the end of a summer day when thousands had flocked to Bondi Beach, an icon of Australia’s cultural life. They included hundreds gathered for the “Hanukkah by the Sea” event celebrating the start of the Jewish festival with food, face painting, and a petting zoo.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called the massacre an act of antisemitic terrorism that struck at the heart of the nation.
Police shot the two suspected gunmen, a father and son, named by Australian media as Sajid Akram, 50, and Naveed, 24. The father died at the scene. His son remained in a coma in hospital on Monday, Albanese said.
The ACTU said it was important to “acknowledge and honor the extraordinary courage of emergency services workers, including police, paramedics, and first responders, who rushed towards danger to save lives.
“The bravery of these workers, alongside the heroic actions of civilians, undoubtedly prevented further loss of life.”
Meanwhile, Australian politicians have moved quickly to tighten up the country’s gun laws.
Among the new measures proposed would be a limit on the number of guns someone can own and a review of licenses held over time.
Prime Minister Albanese said: “The government is prepared to take whatever action is necessary. Included in that is the need for tougher gun laws.”
Among those being treated in hospital for their injuries is Ahmed al Ahmed, who was captured on video appearing to tackle and disarm one apparent assailant, before pointing the man’s weapon at him, then setting the gun on the ground.
Ahmed, who reportedly has a background in the Syrian security forces, was shot in the shoulder during the incident.
But Jews in Australia have criticized the government’s response to a growing number of antisemitic attacks in recent months.
Alex Ryvchin, spokesperson for the Australian Council of Executive Jewry, told reporters gathered on Monday near the site of the shooting: “I think when an attack such as what we saw yesterday takes place, the paramount and fundamental duty of the government is the protection of its citizens, so there’s been an immense failure.”
Morning Star
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