https://arab.news/6ypzm
The horrific terrorist attack on predominantly Jewish worshippers attending a religious celebration at Sydney’s Bondi Beach on Sunday revealed two stark realities: the tragedy of religiously motivated violence and the courage of Ahmed Al-Ahmed, an unarmed Syrian Muslim immigrant who wrestled a gun from one of the terrorists, saving countless lives despite him being injured. Video of his intervention went viral, with people worldwide hailing him as a hero.
Australian authorities identified the assailants — a father and son associated with Daesh — as responsible for killing 15 people and injuring dozens more. Muslim-majority nations including Saudi Arabia condemned the attack, as did Muslim associations across Australia and New Zealand.
Yet Israeli officials quickly blamed the Australian government for what they characterized as rising antisemitism, pointing to anti-Israel protests held across Australia this year in response to the war in Gaza.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu directly linked the Australian government’s recognition of a Palestinian state in September to Sunday’s attack. He has repeatedly blamed anti-Israel protests in Australia and other Western countries for fueling global antisemitism.
