Wellington, New Zealand – New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxembourg expressed his condolences and deep shock following the mass shooting at Bondi Beach in Sydney, which left 10 people dead.
In a moving official statement, Luxon emphasized the depth of the relationship between the two countries: “Australia and New Zealand are closer than friends, we are family.”
Luxon added, expressing New Zealand’s solidarity: “I am deeply shocked by the distressing scenes in Bondi, a place New Zealanders visit every day. My thoughts, and the thoughts of all New Zealanders, are with those affected.”
The final tally is likely to increase, and emergency meetings are being held.
These condolences come amid continued security tensions in Australia. Authorities have announced that the death toll from the mass shooting has risen to ten, including one of the attackers. Twelve civilians and two police officers were injured in the attack. Government sources indicate that the number of victims is likely to rise further due to the severity of some of the injuries.
In light of the developments, the Australian Cabinet’s National Security Committee is holding an emergency meeting in Canberra, chaired by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, to discuss the necessary security measures.
Cancellation of Hanukkah celebrations
Locally, organizers cancelled Hanukkah celebrations in Melbourne as a precaution following the attack. Victorian Premier Jacinta Allen expressed her horror at the events and affirmed the solidarity of all Victorians with New South Wales.
