Rep. Chris Smith, a Republican from New Jersey, has issued a statement condemning the recent antisemitic attack at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia. The incident occurred during a Hanukkah celebration where gunmen opened fire, resulting in the deaths of at least 15 people and injuring dozens more, including children and elderly attendees.
Authorities have identified the event as a targeted act of antisemitic terrorism. Multiple attackers were involved, and officials credited bystanders and first responders for their quick actions that prevented further casualties. The attack has led to increased security around Jewish institutions across Australia.
“My heart breaks for the victims, their families, and the entire Australian Jewish community enduring this unimaginable tragedy,” Smith said. “The savagery and cruelty of this attack on Jewish families echoes the worst antisemitic violence we have seen since the October 7 Hamas atrocity.”
Smith commended a bystander who intervened during the shooting by tackling and disarming one of the attackers, noting that these actions likely saved many lives.
Smith is recognized for his long-standing advocacy against antisemitism. He authored the Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism Act of 2021. He called for stronger international cooperation to address antisemitism and ensure accountability for those responsible.
Under this legislation, former President Trump nominated Yehuda Kaploun in April to serve as U.S. Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism with ambassadorial rank. Smith pointed out that almost nine months later, Senate confirmation is still pending due to delays common in modern confirmation processes involving partisan disagreements and other legislative priorities.
When announcing Kaploun’s nomination earlier this year, Trump described him as both a successful businessman and an advocate for the Jewish faith who could provide strong leadership against rising global antisemitism.
Smith stressed that combating antisemitism requires action on several fronts: “The United States must stand shoulder to shoulder with our allies to ensure Jewish communities can practice their faith openly and without fear,” he said. “Leaders worldwide must redouble their efforts to counter this rising tide of hate, including through enhanced security measures and accountability for those who incite or commit these crimes.”
Chris Smith has represented New Jersey’s 4th district in Congress since 1981 after replacing Frank Thompson. Born in Rahway, New Jersey in 1953, Smith is currently 70 years old and resides in Manchester Township. He graduated from The College of New Jersey with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1975.
The original article was published on December 15, 2025 at https://www.tapinto.net/towns/gold-coast/articles/congressman-smith-condemns-deadly-antisemitic-attack-at-hanukkah-event-in-australia
