The Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion commenced its inaugural public hearings in Sydney this Monday, with the daughter of a victim from the Bondi terror attack appearing as the first witness. She shared accounts of experiencing antisemitic abuse, an ordeal that left her feeling "shocked, exposed and unsafe." This appearance marks a significant moment as the commission, established to address rising concerns about antisemitism, begins its investigative process.
The daughter of a Bondi terror attack victim, whose father was shot and wounded during the incident, has revealed she has experienced antisemitic abuse since the attack. This abuse has been described as leaving her feeling "shocked, exposed and unsafe." The revelation comes as the first witness before the newly formed Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion.
The commission's proceedings began with the witness detailing her personal experiences. Simultaneously, Foreign Minister Penny Wong reaffirmed Australia's commitment to the Aukus security pact, stating it remains a clear focus for the government. The Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion has since broken for lunch on its opening day of public hearings.
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Grief, Accusations, and a Father's Heroism
In a separate account, the daughter of another Bondi victim, Mr. Al Ahmed, highlighted her father's heroic actions during the attack. Despite sustaining multiple gunshot wounds himself, Mr. Al Ahmed is reported to have saved numerous lives. His daughter, Sheina Gutnick, speaking on A Current Affair, stated he did not regret his actions, emphasizing his bravery in the face of danger. She noted he suffered approximately five bullet wounds.
Parallels Drawn to Holocaust, Criticism of Media
Sabina Kleitman, daughter of victim Alex Kleytman, has drawn parallels between the Holocaust and the Bondi terror attack. Her father, who passed away from his injuries, had reportedly spent his life fighting antisemitism. She mentioned that on the rare occasions he spoke of his past, it was to reflect on his survival and good fortune.
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Separately, Victoria Teplitsky, daughter of an 86-year-old Holocaust survivor shot during the Bondi attack, has publicly criticized the ABC for what she perceives as biased reporting on Israel-related issues and the subsequent rise in antisemitism following the October 7 events. She questioned the government's actions, asking Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Minister Penny Wong if they would "listen to us" and "have a voice." Ms. Teplitsky framed her father's life as one of persistent survival, from confronting antisemitism in the former Soviet Union to building a new life in Australia. Her father, a Holocaust survivor, was celebrating Hanukkah when the attack occurred. His quick-thinking girlfriend's application of a tourniquet is credited with likely saving his life before he underwent surgery.
The Albanese government has stated its support for a two-state solution and outlined actions taken to combat hate speech, including criminalizing incitement to violence and banning the Nazi salute. Funding for physical security for Jewish community groups has also been pledged.
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