An open letter from Benny Gantz
Dear Members of the Australian Jewish Community,
Benny Gantz Photo by Arie Leib Abrams/Flash90.
This weekend’s disturbing events — including a vile arson attempt on a Synagogue and storming of a restaurant in Melbourne accompanied by chants of “Death to the IDF”, are sadly yet further examples of the blatant antisemitism and intimidation you have endured and which has reverberated far beyond Australia’s shores.
Throughout Israel, we have watched with deep concern, great pain, and unwavering solidarity.
As former IDF Chief of Staff and Minister of Defence, and the proud son of Holocaust survivors who have taught me everything I know about resilience and strength, I want to say to you clearly and unequivocally: you are not alone.
No Jew, anywhere in the world, should live in fear for walking into a synagogue, wearing a Star of David, or expressing support for Israel and its right to self-defence.
What occurred this weekend is not merely an isolated incident — it is a recurring reminder of the growing global threat posed by the poison of antisemitism in all its forms, whether masked as political protest or manifesting in explicit violence.
The State of Israel is not just the homeland of those who live within its borders — it is the eternal home and safe haven of all Jews, wherever they may choose to be. Your pain is our pain. Your fight is our fight. Even with its clear expressed condemnation, I urged the Australian Government to take more decisive, unprecedented action in protecting your communities and right to a life free of fear and persecution.
I want to commend the leadership of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, local communal organisations, and countless individuals who have stood tall in the face of hatred. The determination, pride, and courage with which you have moved against this tide of hatred is nothing short of inspiring and continues to prove beyond a doubt that no matter where they are, always- AM ISRAEL CHAI.
Benny Gantz
Chairman of the National Unity Party
Mr Gantz, Please know that the overwhelming majority of Australians agree with your sentiments, and support the Jewish members of our communities. It is very clear that our Jewish citizens live productive, peaceful lives in this country, whilst those of a different faith are a constant source of violence and hatred.
Sadly, our government is weak and tends to make decisions based upon who gives them the most votes. We apologise for their ineptitude and obvious bias on a daily basis.