External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has strongly condemned the recent terror attack that occurred during a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach in Sydney. Speaking from Jerusalem during a two-day visit to Israel, Jaishankar reiterated the shared "zero tolerance" policy of India and Israel towards terrorism.

The attack, which took place on Sunday, involved two gunmen who opened fire on a gathering during the Jewish festival Hanukkah by the Sea celebration. The incident resulted in the deaths of at least 15 people and injuries to 40 others.

Jaishankar conveyed his "very, very sincere, deep condolences" for the loss of life and emphasized that India condemns the attack "in the strongest possible terms". He also expressed appreciation for Israel's consistent support in India's fight against terrorism in all its forms.

During a press conference with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Moshe Sa'ar, Jaishankar highlighted the strategic partnership between India and Israel, noting its significant development over the past decade. He described the two countries as "very complementary partners" and stressed the importance of maximizing their potential. Sa'ar echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that "Terror is a mutual threat for both countries and we are standing always with the people of India".

The External Affairs Minister said discussions during his visit would focus on deepening the strategic partnership between India and Israel. This partnership includes government-to-government (G2G), business-to-business (B2B), and people-to-people (P2P) engagements. A working plan for 2026 is expected to be adopted, further solidifying the bilateral relations.

Jaishankar also reiterated India's support for the Gaza peace plan, expressing hope that it would lead to a durable and lasting solution.

In related developments, Indian police have identified one of the terrorists involved in the Sydney attack as Sajid Akram, originally from Hyderabad. According to Telangana state police, Akram had limited contact with his family in India, and they were unaware of his radical mindset or activities.

Following the attack, an Australian Chabad rabbi revealed that community leaders had previously warned the government about the dangers of anti-Israel protests, particularly one that occurred in Sydney shortly after October 7, 2023. He stated that community leaders had pleaded with the government to shut down these demonstrations, citing the threat they posed to the Jewish community.