Closer Than Friends, We’re Family’: Luxon Condemns Bondi Attack, Announces Increased Security
WELLINGTON, NZ — Prime Minister Christopher Luxon used his post-Cabinet news conference yesterday to address the devastating terrorist attack in Bondi, Sydney, unequivocally condemning the violence and affirming New Zealand’s solidarity with Australia and the Jewish community. The Prime Minister, who spoke shortly after his weekly Cabinet meeting, labelled the attack as a cruel act of antisemitism and announced immediate steps to reassure New Zealand’s own Jewish population.
A Message of Family and Solidarity
In his remarks, Prime Minister Luxon described the relationship between New Zealand and Australia in the strongest terms, emphasising a bond that transcends diplomacy.
“Australia and New Zealand are closer than friends: We’re family,” Mr. Luxon stated. “I am shocked by the distressing scenes at Bondi, a place that Kiwis visit every day. My thoughts, and the thoughts of all New Zealanders, are with those affected.”
The attack, which occurred near an event celebrating the Jewish festival of Hanukkah, was described by the Prime Minister as a targeted act of hatred. “The Bondi attack was an act of antisemitism in all its ugliness and cruelty,” he said. He emphasised that the New Zealand Government stands “in solidarity with the people of the Jewish faith” following the shooting in Sydney.
Increased Security and Reassurance for the Jewish Community
In a direct response to the heightened fear among New Zealand’s Jewish communities, the Prime Minister announced that the New Zealand Police have initiated measures to provide extra reassurance and security.
- Community Engagement: Police are actively meeting with Jewish community leaders across New Zealand to discuss concerns and coordinate protective measures.
- Increased Patrols: The Prime Minister confirmed that security patrols around key community locations, such as synagogues and community centres, would be increased to ensure public safety and deter potential copycat actions.
This swift action is designed to communicate that, while an attack occurred across the Tasman, the government is taking all necessary steps to maintain safety and security at home.
Context of the Tragedy
The attack, which tragically claimed multiple lives and injured many others, occurred on the first day of the eight-day Jewish festival of Hanukkah. The New South Wales Premier, Chris Minns, confirmed that the gathering was an event targeting members of Sydney’s Jewish community.
Deputy Prime Minister David Seymour also weighed in, stating that his thoughts were with “Sydney’s victims tonight, their loved ones, and Jewish communities around the world,” adding that, “Violence in the South Pacific will not bring peace to the Middle East or anywhere else, it is stupid and evil.”
The New Zealand Jewish Council President, Juliet Moses, expressed being “utterly sickened and horrified” by the mass shooting, a sentiment echoed by Mr. Luxon’s government. The tragedy serves as a brutal reminder of the global rise in antisemitism and the need for vigilance even in regions traditionally considered safe.
The Prime Minister’s post-Cabinet news conference, which is typically focused on domestic policy matters, was dominated by this international tragedy, reflecting the deep personal and political impact the event has had on New Zealand.
You can watch the PM Christopher Luxon faces questions at post-cab press conference for more on the Prime Minister’s public statements following his Cabinet meeting. Video Credit is to RNZ
