Witnesses to Bondi Beach Terror Attack Face Online Harassment After Testifying
Australian Jews report harassment, intimidation after testifying before Bondi commission
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Witnesses who testified before the Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion regarding the Bondi Beach terror attack are experiencing increased online harassment. Virginia Bell, the commission's head, warned that such intimidation could lead to prosecution, and police have been notified of specific incidents.
- 01Virginia Bell, head of the Royal Commission, reported a surge in online hate messages targeting witnesses.
- 02At least one case of harassment has been referred to the Australian Federal Police.
- 03Prime Minister Anthony Albanese initiated the inquiry following pressure from Jewish leaders.
- 04Natalie Levy, a witness, shared her daughter's exposure to antisemitic acts in schools.
- 05The December 14 attack resulted in 15 fatalities, including a rabbi and a child.
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Virginia Bell, leading the Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion, revealed that witnesses who testified about the Bondi Beach terror attack are facing significant online harassment. This follows the inquiry into the December 14 attack that killed 15 people, including Rabbi Eli Schlanger and a 10-year-old girl. Bell emphasized the seriousness of witness intimidation and stated that the commission is documenting these incidents, with at least one case referred to the Australian Federal Police. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese launched the inquiry in January after Jewish leaders raised concerns about rising antisemitism. Testimonies from witnesses like Natalie Levy highlighted the normalization of antisemitism in Australia, with children facing hate speech and symbols in schools. Jillian Segal, the special envoy to combat antisemitism, also noted a troubling trend of increasing hatred towards Jews, describing it as becoming 'almost fashionable.'
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The rise in antisemitic incidents and harassment of witnesses could deter individuals from participating in future inquiries.
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