President Donald Trump kicked off Hanukkah this year with a White House proclamation that's equal parts holiday greeting and policy statement. His administration, he said, stands firmly behind Jewish Americans and the broader principle that everyone should be able to practice their faith without looking over their shoulder.
A Holiday Message With Teeth
The White House posted Trump's message on X this past Sunday, dated December 14. It wasn't just ceremonial holiday boilerplate. "This holiday season, my Administration continues to stand firmly with the Jewish people and defend the right of every believer to worship freely and without fear of persecution," Trump declared in the proclamation.
Vice President JD Vance followed suit on X, wishing Jewish friends across America a Happy Hanukkah while specifically requesting prayers for victims of a recent terrorist attack in Australia. His message honored their memory and acknowledged the shadow cast over this year's celebrations.
Rep. Adam Schiff, a California Democrat, used the occasion to reflect on what Hanukkah represents in the face of antisemitism. He expressed solidarity with Sydney's Jewish community and encouraged strength and mutual support during difficult times.
Sydney's Hanukkah Tragedy
The context for those prayers became painfully clear on Sunday. What should have been a joyful Hanukkah celebration at Sydney's Bondi Beach turned into Australia's deadliest shooting in nearly 30 years. Eleven people were killed and 29 injured when two gunmen opened fire on the gathering.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese didn't mince words, calling it antisemitic terrorism. Police fatally shot one attacker at the scene, while the other was arrested in critical condition. New South Wales Premier Chris Minns confirmed what many suspected: the assault specifically targeted Sydney's Jewish community.
Among the dead was Rabbi Eli Schlanger, assistant rabbi at Chabad of Bondi and a key organizer of the event. Authorities are still investigating suspicious items found in one suspect's vehicle, including explosives. The attack has thrown a harsh spotlight on rising antisemitism in Australia and the urgent need to address it.
A Global Response
The international reaction came swiftly. Former Presidents Barack Obama and Joe Biden both expressed solidarity with the families affected. Obama said he and Michelle were praying for the victims, while Biden called the assault "shocking" and "unconscionable." Biden also addressed a separate deadly shooting at Brown University, pushing for stronger gun violence prevention measures.
World leaders lined up to condemn the attack. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney offered condolences and emphasized a united global front against terrorism and antisemitism.
Even business leaders weighed in. Billionaire investor Bill Ackman and Salesforce Inc. (CRM) CEO Marc Benioff praised the bravery of those who intervened during the attack, highlighting moments of courage amid the horror.
The tragedy has become more than just a local story. It's sparked a broader conversation about protecting religious communities and confronting hate-fueled violence wherever it appears.