Cold-blooded murder on our beaches.

I unequivocally condemn the reported murder and violent attack on members of our Jewish Australian community celebrating Chanukah at Bondi Beach this evening.

Tragically, as I’m writing, reports have confirmed that twelve people are dead and twenty-nine people are injured.

There is no justification for this sickening violence or hatred against anyone, and I stand in solidarity with all victims, families, and communities affected by this reprehensible act.

I affirm:

• That violence against individuals or communities because of their faith is an attack on our shared humanity and fundamental rights.
• The importance of upholding the rule of law, ensuring a prompt, transparent, and thorough investigation.

The perpetrators of this senseless violence have a clear purpose: to spread fear, terror, division and mistrust within our communities.

We must not allow them to achieve their intent.

Everyone has the right to celebrate their faith without fear. Violence and hatred have no place in our society.

My thoughts are with the victims and those affected.

Aftab Malik
Australia’s Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia