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The Jewish Federation of Greater Harrisburg has expressed its outrage following a mass shooting at a Hanukkah celebration in Sydney, Australia. The attack, which occurred at Bondi Beach, resulted in the deaths of at least 15 people, with 40 others hospitalized. The Federation described the incident as a "deliberate terrorist attack targeting the Jewish community" and urged government officials to denounce the act as antisemitism.
The shooting took place during the first night of Hanukkah, a time of celebration for Jewish communities worldwide. The Jewish Federation of Greater Harrisburg joined other Jewish Federations across North America in mourning the victims and offering condolences to their families. The Federation emphasized the importance of community security and announced that security measures would be heightened for Hanukkah celebrations in their area.
Jewish Federations across North America have placed their community security initiatives on high alert, working closely with law enforcement to ensure the safety of their communities. They reaffirmed their commitment to continue Jewish traditions and to stand against hatred and antisemitism.
The Australian Human Rights Commission also condemned the attack, calling it a manifestation of rising antisemitism in the country. The Commission expressed solidarity with the Jewish community and called for unity against terror and racism. They acknowledged the bravery of community members and emergency services who responded to the incident.
As the Jewish community in Harrisburg and around the world grapples with this tragedy, they remain steadfast in their resolve to uphold their traditions and values in the face of adversity.