The President of the European Parliament held a minute of silence at the beginning of the Plenary for all those killed in the horrific terror attack that took place in Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, during Hannukah celebrations.
Dear colleagues, All of us are profoundly shaken by the horrific terror attack that took place yesterday at Bondi Beach during Hanukkah celebrations in Sydney. What should have been a moment of light, of gathering and of shared celebration for the Jewish community became a scene of brutal and mindless murder and violence. At least fifteen innocent lives were taken away. 10-year-old Matilda and 87-year-old Holocaust survivor Alex were among the victims hunted down by the gunmen as they were on the beach. Many others are still in hospital, some in critical condition. They are all in our thoughts. I also want to recognise that we would be talking about countless more victims today if it was not for the bravery of 43-year-old shop owner Ahmed who, unarmed, ran into the gunfire and disarmed one of the terrorists. He was shot and is recovering in hospital. He was the light that dark day. This Parliament stands with the Jewish community of Australia and beyond. Antisemitism, religious hatred, violent extremism and terror have no place in our society. And we must do everything in our power to eradicate it. While we mourn, the story of Hannukah tells us that no terror can ever extinguish the flickering light of these days of hope. I now invite you all to join me in observing a moment of silence for all those lost.