Blind to Danger: The Chanukah Massacre’s Alarming Omission

The Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion has highlighted a disturbing pattern of complacency within Australia’s law enforcement agencies, particularly NSW Police. The nation is grappling with the aftermath of the Chanukah attack that claimed 15 lives and left dozens wounded.

In the days leading up to the tragedy, Community Security Group warned NSW Police about an imminent threat, citing intelligence suggesting an attack was likely. Despite these warnings, police failed to conduct a risk assessment for the event, opting instead for intermittent mobile patrols. This decision is especially egregious given that CSG’s own risk assessment identified Bondi Beach as a high-risk location due to its concentration of Jewish people.

Assistant Commissioner Leanne McCusker’s testimony has raised eyebrows, particularly her assertion that threat assessments are typically reserved for major events such as New Year’s Eve and Anzac Day. However, the Chanukah By The Sea festival, which drew 1,000 attendees, should have been treated with equal importance given its significance to the Jewish community.

NSW Police were aware of ASIO’s concerns about lone or small group actors carrying out attacks on crowded areas, further underscoring their dereliction of duty. It is unconscionable that they did not take proactive measures to protect the community, especially considering the tier 3 event classification for Chanukah celebrations.

The decision not to conduct a risk assessment raises questions about the prioritization of community safety within NSW Police. Is it possible that an attack on a Jewish gathering was seen as less significant than protests or street fairs? The silence from senior police officials is deafening, and their explanations thus far have been woefully inadequate.

The Chanukah massacre serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat to Jewish communities worldwide. In recent years, anti-Semitic attacks in Australia have increased, with the community facing an unprecedented level of hatred and intimidation. The lack of preparedness displayed by NSW Police has left many wondering whether law enforcement agencies are truly equipped to address this menace.

The Royal Commission’s investigation will shed more light on these issues, but it is imperative that we recognize the gravity of this situation. For too long, authorities have been complacent in their response to anti-Semitic threats. The Chanukah attack demands a fundamental shift in approach, one that prioritizes community safety and acknowledges the unique vulnerabilities faced by Jewish communities.

As we await the findings of the commission, it is essential that we hold our law enforcement agencies accountable for their actions. Anything less would be a betrayal of the victims and their families, who deserve justice and closure. The time for excuses and finger-pointing has passed; what’s needed now is decisive action to ensure that such tragedies never occur again.

The question on everyone’s mind is: will NSW Police learn from its mistakes? Or will we continue to witness a pattern of neglect and complacency that puts lives at risk?