President Isaac Herzog spoke this morning with David Ossip, President of the New South Wales Jewish Board of Deputies, and Rabbi Levi Wolff, the Rabbi of the Central Synagogue in Sydney, following the horrific terror attack targeting a Chanukah event in Sydney.
During the calls, President Herzog expressed the profound shock and sorrow felt across Israel in the wake of the attack, which struck the Jewish community as they gathered to mark the first night of Chanukah. He conveyed the heartfelt condolences of the entire Israeli nation to the families of those murdered, prayers for the recovery of the wounded, and solidarity with the Australian Jewish community at this devastating moment.
President Herzog said to David Ossip: “We are utterly shocked and bereaved. The entire nation of Israel feels that its heartbeat has stopped. On behalf of the State of Israel and the people of Israel, please convey our deepest condolences to the bereaved families and our prayers for the recovery of the wounded. We stand with you, and we are here for you.”
Mr. Ossip briefed the President on the grave situation on the ground, describing the deadly attack at a Chanukah gathering in Sydney, the loss of life including a senior rabbi, and the immediate steps taken to place the community in lockdown amid ongoing security concerns.
President Herzog emphasized his confidence in the leadership of the Australian Jewish community and reiterated Israel’s unwavering support: “We trust your leadership and your strength. You will do whatever is needed to ensure the safety of the community. Please know that the State of Israel stands alongside you.”
Mr. Ossip thanked President Herzog for the call, noting the strength and reassurance drawn from Israel’s solidarity at such a painful time.
President Herzog concluded by urging resilience and unity, saying: “Be strong. We will remain in close contact. Shalom, my friend.”
In his call with Rabbi Levi Wolff, the Rabbi of the Central Synagogue in Sydney, President Herzog conveyed his deepest condolences on the murder of a Chabad Rabbi in the attack.
President Herzog shared words of strength with Rabbi Wolff, affirming that “the Jewish people never give up. We are an eternal people, and the candles will be lit again as of tomorrow, again and again, all over the world.”
Rabbi Wolff responded that, even amidst the terrible pain of this moment, “we have shown over the years that no-one can hold us down, and we will move on stronger.”