A children’s author publicly defended one of the deadliest antisemitic attacks on Diaspora Jews in decades, sparking outrage as Australia grapples with a 600% surge in antisemitic incidents following the Bondi Beach Hanukkah massacre.
The Hanukkah Massacre That Shattered Australia’s Jewish Community
The shooting at Bondi Beach transformed one of Sydney’s most beloved locations into a scene of terror during the Jewish Festival of Lights. Fifteen people lost their lives in what authorities now classify as the deadliest attack on Diaspora Jews in decades. Among the victims were Holocaust survivors who had escaped European persecution only to face violence in what they believed was a haven.
The attack specifically targeted Jews celebrating Hanukkah, a timing that Jewish advocacy groups describe as deliberately symbolic. Twelve victims have been identified so far, including rabbis and a young child, highlighting the indiscriminate nature of the violence that struck at the heart of Australia’s Jewish community.
Author’s Defense Ignites National Controversy
An Australian children’s author, Matt Chun, sparked widespread condemnation by publicly defending the Bondi Beach shooting as justified action against what they termed “colonial oppression.” The author’s statements on social media characterized the victims as legitimate targets and praised the attacker’s actions as resistance.
NOT WANTED
Matt Chun
This government funded far left grifter/agitator wants to import foreign conflicts into Australia.
He justifies the murder of innocent Australians in Bondi — including the murder of a 10-year-old girl.
Spreads hatred and incites violence while receiving… pic.twitter.com/mntDYbS5S2
— Kofy Time (@kofy_time) January 5, 2026
The defense comes amid a broader pattern of normalized antisemitism that Jewish community leaders argue has been emboldened by political rhetoric. Local Jewish mayor had launched anti-antisemitism efforts just three weeks before the attack, recognizing the deteriorating security environment facing Australia’s Jewish population.
Government Response Reveals Deep Political Divisions
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese initially issued a vague statement about the attack, avoiding specific mention of antisemitism or the Jewish victims. Only after sustained criticism did his office refine the message to call it an “act of evil antisemitism” and pledge support for the Jewish community.
The Jewish People Policy Institute analyzed global reactions to the attack, scoring 25 countries on their willingness to acknowledge antisemitism specifically. Leaders who avoided mentioning Jews, Hanukkah, or antisemitism received lower ratings, while those who later clarified their positions gained points for eventual moral clarity.
Community Anger Reaches Boiling Point
Jewish community spokesperson Nisell expressed the “massive anger” felt toward the Australian government, particularly criticizing Albanese’s recognition of a Palestinian state as contributing to an environment that emboldens attackers. The Coalition Against Antisemitism has organized a letter signed by approximately 600 global leaders expressing solidarity with the Jewish mayor of Bondi.
Absolutely despicable stuff from Matt Chun on Instagram. pic.twitter.com/z28GFviKxe
— Claire Lehmann (@clairlemon) January 3, 2026
Antisemitic incidents have surged 600% since the attack, including online harassment, verbal attacks, and property damage. The spike demonstrates how high-profile violence can catalyze broader community targeting, creating a climate of fear that extends far beyond the initial tragedy.
Sources:
Jewish Community Expresses Anger at Australian Government Response
Global Leaders Scored on Antisemitism Response to Bondi Attack
600% Surge in Antisemitic Incidents Following Bondi Beach Massacre