Speaking from Jerusalem a week after the attack, Herzog said to Jewish Australians: “The people of Israel are with you. Despite thousands of miles between us, we feel your pain, we see your courage under fire, we share your sense of abandonment, shock, and horror.
“Here in Jerusalem, we heard your hearts break, and felt our own hearts steeped with grief. We send our sincerest condolences to all those grieving their loved ones, and our warmest wishes for the speedy recovery of all those wounded.”
Albanese confirmed that he had not spoken with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu since the attacks. Shortly after the shooting, Netanyahu laid blame for the attacks on Albanese and Labor’s response to antisemitism since October 7, 2023, and for the government’s recognition of a Palestinian state earlier this year.
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“Your government did nothing to stop the spread of antisemitism in Australia. You did nothing to curb the cancer cells that were growing inside your country. You took no action. You let the disease spread and the result is the horrific attacks on Jews we saw today,” Netanyahu said at the time.
Speaking on Wednesday, Albanese said: “I don’t think this is a time for any partisan politics. We’ve invited president Herzog, which is entirely appropriate for the head of state, to visit.”
President of the Zionist Federation of Australia, Jeremy Leibler, said he was grateful the government had extended the invitation, saying it shows “Australia stands with its Jewish citizens and Australia states with Israel against terrorism and hatred”.
“President Herzog’s presence will bring comfort to those who are grieving and reassurance to a community living with fear. It will also honour the victims and the courage shown on the day,” Leibler said in a statement.
The federal government is preparing legislation to bolster hate speech laws and reform the country’s gun ownership system in response to the attack. Labor has rejected calls from the opposition and members of the Jewish community for a federal royal commission into the attacks and antisemitism in Australia, but will hold a review into the workings of police and intelligence agencies.
Bondi Beach incident helplines:Bondi Beach Victim Services on 1800 411 822Bondi Beach Public Information & Enquiry Centre on 1800 227 228NSW Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511 or Lifeline on 13 11 14Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 or chat online at kidshelpline.com.au
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