Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced the introduction of new, stricter laws against hate speech and extremism, days after the Bondi Beach attack left 15 members of the Jewish community dead during the Hanukkah festival.
Albanese said, “I am angry, like other Australians. It is clear we need to do more to prevent this type of attack from recurring in the future.” The prime minister further said that his government will target extremist preachers, impose stiffer punishments, and refuse or cancel visas if anyone is found spreading hate speech and division.
The Australian government has now announced the introduction of new “aggravated hate speech” laws to punish preachers and leaders stoking hatred and violence, Albanese said. The government aims to enforce stricter laws to avoid any attacks based on ethnicity, religion, or race in the country. "Serious vilification" based on race or advocating racial supremacy is to become a federal offence.
The administration is also set to enhance the powers of the internal ministry to reject or cancel visas for people who try to fuel hate and division, he said. "Every Jewish Australian has the right to be proud of who they are and what they believe," he said, adding, "And every Jewish Australian has the right to feel safe, valued and respected for the contribution that they make to our great nation."
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Meanwhile, a feud between the Australian government officials and the Israeli Prime Minister has eased somewhat after Netanyahu linked Australia’s weak policy to the Bondi Beach attack. In a video message posted on X, Netanyahu linked the Bondi Beach attack to Australia’s recognition of Palestinian statehood, alleging that it has fuelled anti-Semitism.
While former Australian Prime Minister Malcom Turnbull responded, saying, “Israeli Prime Minister should avoid commenting on Australian politics and government affairs and stay out of it.” Similar views were expressed by the Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, who rejected Netanyahu’s claims and criticism and said his country won’t tolerate hate speech or division-centric rhetoric.
The attack on the Jewish community in Australia has fuelled online speculations about a possible false flag operation.
Also Read: Bondi Beach shooter from India, left Hyderabad 27 yrs ago: Cops
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