Trump: Sydney beach attack “horrible, purely antisemitic”; praises Muslim civilian hero

WASHINGTON, United States (MNTV) – U.S. President Donald Trump strongly condemned the mass shooting at Sydney’s Bondi Beach, calling it “horrible” and “purely antisemitic.”

He specifically commended Ahmed al Ahmed, the civilian who reportedly confronted the attackers and disarmed one of the suspects during the attack.

Australian authorities have declared the incident a terrorist attack targeting the Jewish community during Hanukkah celebrations.

Trump praised Ahmed al Ahmed as a “very brave person” and said, “I gave respect to that man that did that,” highlighting a rare moment of civilian heroism amid the tragedy that left at least 16 people dead and dozens injured.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also condemned the attack, writing on social media that “antisemitism has no place in this world,” and extended prayers to the victims and the people of Australia.

Attorney General Pamela Bondi described the news as “heartbreaking,” while FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed contact with Australian officials and offered U.S. assistance.

The U.S. Embassy in Australia expressed condolences to the victims’ families, saying it was “heartbroken” over the tragedy.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed that the shooting occurred during Hanukkah celebrations and was directed specifically at Jewish Australians.

The swift and unified condemnation from U.S. leadership underscores the close alliance between Washington and Canberra and a shared stance against religiously motivated terrorism.

The incident has prompted global expressions of solidarity and grief.

Trump’s recognition of Ahmed al Ahmed emphasizes civilian courage in the face of terror, a moment that has captured worldwide attention.