We at the Jerusalem Institute for Strategy and Security express our profound shock and grief at the horrific antisemitic terrorist attack in Sydney on the first night of Hanukkah. Our hearts go out to all those affected by this brutal act. We extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved families, wish a speedy recovery to the injured, and stand in full solidarity with the Jewish community in Australia. The Institute is closely following developments and we remain available to support the community in any way that may be helpful.
This radical Islamist attack cannot be viewed in isolation. It comes against the backdrop of a sustained failure across much of the Western world—and in Australia in particular—to confront antisemitism with the seriousness it demands. When incitement is tolerated, minimized, or left unchallenged, it creates an enabling environment for violence.
Over the past year, Australia has experienced a disturbing wave of antisemitic incidents and attacks, including those organized by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) that prompted the Australian government to designate it as a terrorist organization.
The lesson is clear and urgent. Security protocols must be immediately reviewed and strengthened at Jewish communal events—not only in Australia, but worldwide. The current threat environment leaves no room for complacency. Preventing future attacks requires vigilance, robust physical security, and unequivocal action against antisemitic incitement—rather than parroting platitudes and rewarding terrorism by recognizing a non-existent Palestinian state.
Dr. Danny Lamm
President of the Board, Jerusalem Institute for Strategy and Security
Brig. Gen. (res.) Yossi Kuperwasser
Head of the Jerusalem Institute for Strategy and Security
Maj. Gen. (res.) Yaakov Amidror
Anne and Greg Rosshandler Senior Fellow, Jerusalem Institute for Strategy and Security
