Mamdan: The Sydney attack is a vile terrorist act and anti-Semitic

Translation from SadaNews - New York Mayor Zahraan Mamdan stated that the attack targeting the Hanukkah celebration in Sydney today was a vile terrorist act and anti-Semitic.

Mamdan said, according to SadaNews translation, "I mourn for those who were killed, and I will keep their families and the Jewish community, along with the Chabad movement, in my prayers. I ask God to have mercy on all the victims."

He added, "As we wait for all the facts to become clear, what we know so far is devastating. At least 11 dead, including Rabbi Eli Schlanger, who had close ties to the Crown Heights area. At least 29 injured. Another Jewish community is plunged into sorrow and loss, as the Festival of Lights has turned into a day of darkness. This attack is merely the latest and most horrifying link in a growing chain of violence directed against Jews around the world. Many no longer feel safe to be themselves, to express their faith publicly, or to pray in their temples without armed guards outside. What happened in Bondi is what many Jews fear will happen in their communities as well."

He continued, "On Bondi Beach today, while men with long rifles targeted innocent people, another man rushed toward the source of the gunfire and disarmed one of the shooters. Tonight, as Jews in New York light the menorahs and welcome the first night of Hanukkah, overshadowed by feelings of sadness, let us follow his example and confront hatred with the seriousness and action it demands. As mayor, I will work every day to ensure the safety of Jews in New York - on our streets, in the subways, in the synagogue, and in every moment of every day. Let this be a common goal among all New Yorkers, and let us put an end to this horrific violence and consign it to the past."