GENEVA - The Special Rapporteur on the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms while Countering Terrorism, Ben Saul, today condemned the apparent terrorist attack that targeted Jewish people during a Hannukah celebration at Bondi Beach on 14 December 2025.
"I unequivocally condemn this hateful, antisemitic, terrorist violence against Australia's Jewish community, which is an attack on all Australians and their way of life. I express my deepest sympathy to the victims and their families," Saul said.
The attack at Bondi beach killed 16 people including a child and injured dozens of others.
"I applaud the courage of bystanders who assisted others, including the heroic efforts of one man who tackled a gunman and disarmed him. I also recognise the dedicated efforts of law enforcement, first responders and health care professionals," the expert said.
The Special Rapporteur also welcomed the Australian Government's support for the victims and their families, including facilitating visas to attend funerals.
Saul said that ongoing assistance and support for the victims, including counselling, will be needed, along with public memorialisation of their traumatic experiences.
"I acknowledge the Government's serious efforts to counter a rise in antisemitism since 7 October 2023, including foreign sponsorship of some incidents. I welcome the Government's pledge to further strengthen the safety of the Jewish community," the expert said.
Saul said the Australian Government's pledge to consider tightening the country's already strict gun control laws was a welcome move.
"The existing laws have helped to ensure that mass shootings are exceptionally rare in Australia and offer lessons for any other government who fails to protect the right to life of its population from uncontrolled gun violence," he said.
Saul called for independent and impartial investigation to identify whether the authorities missed any opportunities to prevent the attack, and whether the law enforcement response was sufficiently prompt and effective.
"I also call on the authorities to ensure that Muslim Australians and migrant communities are not stigmatised in public debate and online for the actions of suspected criminals," the Special Rapporteur said. "Political actors, including other governments, must also refrain from politicising this tragic incident and stoking social division," he said.
Saul said that all states have a duty to counter incitement to national, racial or religious hatred, discrimination, hostility or violence in line with international law.
