Orthodox dioceses in Australia have strongly condemned a terrorist attack in Sydney and expressed condolences to the victims following an assault that took place on December 14 during celebrations of the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah at Bondi Beach. According to the latest reports, at least 15 people were killed and dozens injured in the attack.

Metropolitan Siluan of Australia and New Zealand of the Serbian Orthodox Church said the Serbian Orthodox community, as an integral part of Australian society, was “deeply shaken” by the tragedy. He stressed that human life is a gift from God and that all forms of extremism, hatred, and violence are unacceptable. On behalf of the clergy and faithful of the metropolitanate, he offered condolences to the families of those killed and called for prayers for the swift recovery of the injured, emphasizing the special importance of prayers for peace during the Nativity Fast.

The attack was also sharply condemned by Archbishop Makarios of Australia of the Ecumenical Patriarchate. He stated that “there is no holiness in killing” and that violence carried out under religious slogans is a betrayal of faith itself. Archbishop Makarios expressed solidarity with Australia’s Jewish community and with the families of the victims.

Condolences were also conveyed by Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, according to Orthodox Times. In a message to Archbishop Makarios, the Patriarch emphasized that the Church continually prays for peace and fraternity among peoples and religions.

The World Council of Churches (WCC) likewise issued an official condemnation of the Sydney attack. WCC General Secretary Pastor Professor Jerry Pillay described the assault, carried out during Hanukkah celebrations, as “particularly disturbing and unacceptable.” He linked the incident to a troubling global rise in antisemitism and hate-driven violence, warning that such acts threaten the safety of communities that have lived peacefully for decades in multicultural and multireligious societies.

The Sydney attack has prompted a broad international and interfaith response. Representatives of other Christian denominations, Muslim organizations, and political leaders from several countries have also denounced the violence. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the incident as an act of terrorism, while the Australian Cabinet announced plans to tighten gun control legislation.