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World leaders gathered on Sunday to voice their horror and disgust over a mass shooting that left 12 people dead at Sydney’s famous Bondi Beach.
New South Wales Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon reported that one suspect gunman was killed, while another remains in critical condition. He also stated that at least 29 individuals, including two police officers, were hospitalized. Authorities are investigating whether a third suspect was involved and are examining several suspected homemade explosive devices.
Mike Burgess, Australia’s top intelligence official, mentioned that one of the attackers was known to authorities but was not considered an immediate threat.
Here are some comments from global leaders following the tragic event:
“Dark moment”
President Asif Ali Zardari expressed deep sorrow over the incident, extending condolences to the victims’ families and wishing a swift recovery for the injured. On X (formerly Twitter), he shared that Pakistan, having experienced terrorism itself, fully understands the pain such violence causes. He condemned attacks on innocent civilians and said Pakistan stands in solidarity with Australia, reaffirming its unwavering stance against terrorism in all forms.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also issued his condolences via his official X account, condemning terrorism and standing shoulder to shoulder with Australia during this difficult time.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called the attack “shocking and distressing,” labeling it a “terrorist” act as assailants targeted a crowd celebrating Hanukkah. He noted that Australian police and security services are actively investigating the incident.
Opposition leader Sussan Ley expressed her grief, saying Australians are mourning as violence has struck Bondi, an iconic community beloved by many.
EU President Ursula von der Leyen expressed her shock at the shooting, condemning it as a heinous act of violence. She underscored Europe’s support for Australia and Jewish communities worldwide, affirming against hatred, antisemitism, and violence.
Kaja Kallas, EU foreign policy chief, also condemned the attack, emphasizing the importance of unequivocal rejection of such violence.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer conveyed the UK’s condolences, describing the news from Bondi as deeply upsetting.
French President Emmanuel Macron vowed that France would persist in fighting anti-Semitic hatred relentlessly.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni shared her profound grief over the tragic news from Sydney, reaffirming Italy’s condemnation of all violence and anti-Semitism, and offering condolences to the victims.
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul expressed deep shock over the terrorist attack, which he characterized as an act of hatred targeting Jews worldwide on Hanukkah’s first day, extending his sympathies to the families of victims and the Jewish community.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky posted on X that Ukraine stands in solidarity with Australia in the face of the brutal attack targeting the Jewish community in Sydney. He emphasized that terror and hatred must be defeated everywhere and at all times.
A prominent Australian Muslim organization denounced the attack as “horrific.”
New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Luxon said that Australia and New Zealand are more like family than friends, expressing shock at the disturbing scenes at Bondi. He extended his thoughts and condolences to all those affected.
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