A devastating terror attack at Bondi Beach in Sydney, New South Wales, on Sunday, December 14, 2025, has prompted a swift response from Australian authorities, including plans to ban the chant “Globalize the intifada.” The attack, which targeted a Hanukkah celebration, left 15 people dead and dozens wounded.
A Nation Responds to Terror
The shooting, Australia’s worst in nearly 30 years, is being investigated as an act of terrorism targeting the Jewish community. Fifty-year-old Sajid Akram was killed by police at the scene, while his 24-year-old son, Naveed, remains hospitalized under police guard and faces charges including terrorism and 15 counts of murder. Authorities have increased patrols and policing nationwide to prevent further violence.
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns announced plans to convene parliament to pass stricter hate speech and incitement laws. According to a report from the BBC, the government intends to classify the “Globalize the intifada” chant – popular among some anti-Israel activists – as illegal hate speech, with the aim of fostering a “summer of calm” and discouraging large-scale anti-Israel demonstrations.
Past Protests and Community Concerns
The planned ban follows criticism of a protest held in Sydney shortly after October 7, 2023. Video footage from that rally appeared to show demonstrators chanting “gas the Jews” and “f— the Jews,” though New South Wales police later stated they found no evidence of the former chant. The rally also involved the burning of an Israeli flag and the setting off of flares.
Many within Australia’s Jewish community, numbering 120,000, feel the government, and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese specifically, “abandoned” them, arguing that warning signs were overlooked in the lead-up to the Bondi Beach attack. Since the October 7th attacks in Israel, the community has experienced a surge in antisemitism, including attacks on synagogues, schools, and homes, threats against hospital staff, and even the discovery of explosives intended for a synagogue.
Prime Minister Albanese has vowed to strengthen hate laws in response to the massacre. A joint counter-terrorism team is investigating the alleged gunmen’s contacts and movements, including potential connections to Islamist extremists in the Philippines.
Community Resilience and Remembrance
Despite the tragedy, Albanese described the Jewish community as “completely unbreakable” after attending a memorial event at the Great Synagogue in Sydney. Flags are flying at half-mast, and Australians are being asked to light a candle in their windows to honor the victims. A national day of reflection, themed “light over darkness,” was held on Sunday, with a minute of silence observed at 6:47 p.m. (0747 GMT).
The courage of first responders, including surf lifesavers who rushed to provide aid at Bondi Beach, has also been widely praised. Lifeguards observed three minutes of silence along the beach, recognizing the tragedy and expressing solidarity with the Jewish community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the “Globalize the intifada” chant?
According to the BBC, the “Globalize the intifada” chant is popular among some anti-Israel activists.
What charges does Naveed Akram face?
Naveed Akram faces charges including terrorism and 15 murders, and remains in the hospital under police guard.
How has the Australian Jewish community responded to the attack?
Many in Australia’s Jewish community say the government “abandoned” them, arguing that warning signs were ignored in the lead-up to the Bondi massacre.
As Australia grapples with the aftermath of this horrific event, what measures will be most effective in fostering a climate of safety and inclusivity for all communities?
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