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NSW moves to outlaw controversial slogan
New South Wales will prohibit the phrase "globalise the intifada" as part of a sweeping crackdown on hate speech following Australia's deadliest shooting in nearly three decades, Premier Chris Minns announced.
Bondi attack sparks national security review
Fifteen people died and dozens were injured last Sunday when two gunmen opened fire at a Jewish festival on Bondi Beach. Authorities believe the attackers were motivated by Islamic State ideology.
Minns confirmed he will recall the state parliament next week to fast-track stricter hate-speech laws and tighter gun controls. He also signaled plans to restrict large protests in an effort to ensure "a summer of calm."
Controversy over 'intifada' chant
The term "intifada," which emerged during the 1987 Palestinian uprising against Israeli occupation, has sparked debate. Critics argue it incites violence against Jewish communities, while supporters describe it as a call for peaceful resistance.
Two pro-Palestinian demonstrators were arrested in London this week for allegedly shouting slogans involving the word.
Nationwide tributes and policy responses
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese unveiled a gun buyback scheme targeting newly banned and illegal firearms, with plans to collect and destroy hundreds of thousands of weapons.
On Saturday, around 1,000 lifeguards formed a human chain along Bondi Beach in honor of the victims. Similar tributes were held at beaches across Australia, including a circle of swimmers and surfers who paddled out to create a symbolic ring.
Lifeguard Jackson Doolan was praised for sprinting to the scene with medical supplies during the attack.
National day of reflection set for Sunday
Australians will observe a minute of silence at 6:47 p.m. local time (0747 GMT) on Sunday, marking one week since the shooting. Flags will fly at half-mast, and citizens are encouraged to light candles in their windows under the theme "light over darkness."
"Sixty seconds carved out from the noise of daily life, dedicated to 15 Australians who should be with us today. It will be a moment of pause to reflect and affirm that hatred and violence will never define us as Australians,"
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese
Historical context
The Bondi attack is the worst mass shooting in Australia since the 1996 Port Arthur massacre, which claimed 35 lives and led to sweeping gun reforms under then-Prime Minister John Howard.
