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6d ago

Pope Leo XIV Condemns Antisemitic Violence in Sydney Hanukkah Massacre

His remarks came at a Vatican audience with donors of the Christmas decorations.

Pope Leo XIV hugs a child at the end of an audience with donors of the Christmas tree and nativity scene set up in St. Peter's Square, in the Paul VI Hall, at the Vatican, Monday, Dec. 15, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)
Sister Raffaella Petrini, left, President of the Vatican City State walks at the end of an audience with Pope Leo XIV with donors of the Christmas tree and nativity scene set up in St. Peter's Square, in the Paul VI Hall, at the Vatican, Monday, Dec. 15, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)
Pope Leo XIV prays in front of Nacimiento Gaudium, a nativity scene set in the Paul VI Hall adorned with 28,000 ribbons representing lives saved from abortion according to Catholic organizations, during an audience with donors of the Christmas tree and of the nativity scenes, at the Vatican Monday, Dec. 15, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)
Ribbons representing lives saved from abortion according to Catholic organizations are seen on Nacimiento Gaudium, a nativity scene set in the Paul VI Hall during an audience led by Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican, Monday, Dec. 15, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Overview

  • The pope prayed for the victims and called for the eradication of antisemitic hatred following the attack on a Hanukkah gathering at Bondi Beach.
  • At least 15 people were killed at the “Chanukah by the Sea” event, where hundreds had assembled to mark the start of the Jewish festival.
  • Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese labeled the massacre an act of antisemitic terrorism.
  • Leo highlighted donated evergreen trees from Italian regions and a Nativity scene from Costa Rica as symbols of life and hope during the holiday season.
  • He delivered a forceful anti-abortion message, noting the creche’s 28,000 ribbons as representations of lives he said were saved through support for mothers in need.