U.S. Rabbis Respond to Sydney Hanukkah Attack

On December 13, 2025, a shooting at a Hanukkah celebration in Bondi Beach, Sydney, resulted in the deaths of at least 15 individuals. The attack has prompted a wave of concern and heightened security measures among Jewish communities across the United States, coinciding with the onset of the Hanukkah holiday.

The Straits Times

In the aftermath of the attack, rabbis from various U.S. cities, including Portland, Maine, and Schenectady, New York, expressed a mix of shock and resignation. Rabbi Rachel Simmons from Temple Beth El noted, “It feels almost normalized” to wake up to such violence, indicating a troubling trend in antisemitic incidents. Many congregations are implementing increased security measures for their Hanukkah events, with armed guards and coordination with local law enforcement becoming standard practice. Rabbi Rafi Spitzer from Congregation Agudat Achim in Schenectady emphasized the ongoing feeling of being "under siege," reflecting a broader anxiety within the Jewish community.

The Straits Times

The rise in antisemitic hate crimes in the U.S. since 2021 has heightened fears among Jewish leaders. New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch stated that the Sydney attack is part of a "wider assault on Jewish life," underscoring the global nature of the threat. Some rabbis linked the attack to the political climate surrounding the Israel-Palestine conflict, particularly referencing Hamas' actions and the subsequent war in Gaza. Rabbi Ammiel Hirsch from the Stephen Wise Free Synagogue warned that calls for the destruction of Israel have contributed to increased hostility towards Jews.

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While some rabbis called for a unified stance against antisemitism, others urged caution in drawing parallels between different incidents. Rabbi Daniel Kirzane from KAM Isaiah Israel highlighted the need for nuanced understanding, noting that state-sponsored antisemitism, such as accusations against Iran for arson attacks on Jewish institutions in Australia, differs significantly from local acts of hate. This perspective suggests that while the threat is real, responses must be tailored to the specific context of each incident.

The Straits Times

Despite the heightened tensions, many Jewish communities are determined to celebrate Hanukkah. KAM Isaiah Israel planned a rededication ceremony for its sanctuary on December 14, with 400 attendees expected and increased security measures in place. Rabbi Kirzane reflected on the potential impact of the attack on attendance, pondering whether it would deter or motivate community members to gather. Rabbi Sarah Fort from Congregation Beth Yeshurun emphasized the importance of public Jewish expression during challenging times, stating, “We are commanded to bring light to the darkness.”

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The Bondi Beach attack has resonated deeply within the U.S. Jewish community, prompting discussions about security, resilience, and the broader implications of rising antisemitism. As congregations prepare to celebrate Hanukkah, the focus remains on unity and the enduring spirit of the Jewish people in the face of adversity.

The Straits Times

• “It’s hard to ignore the feeling of being under siege,” — Rabbi Rafi Spitzer, Congregation Agudat Achim

The Straits Times

• “It is part of a wider assault on Jewish life.” — Jessica Tisch, New York City Police Commissioner

The Straits Times

• “We cannot normalise and tolerate the destruction of Israel.” — Rabbi Ammiel Hirsch, Stephen Wise Free Synagogue

The Straits Times

• “We are commanded to bring light to the darkness,” — Rabbi Sarah Fort, Congregation Beth Yeshurun

The Straits Times