Arabic version: أستراليا تطلق تحقيقًا في معاداة السامية بعد إطلاق نار شاطئ بوندي

According to BBC News,

Australia’s royal commission into antisemitism has commenced public hearings, prompted by the Bondi Beach shootings that killed 15 people and injured 40. This inquiry, the most powerful form of public investigation in the country, will explore the prevalence and key drivers of antisemitism, ultimately making recommendations to the government.

Headed by former High Court Justice Virginia Bell, the commission began its work on Tuesday, examining the events leading up to the attack, which was Australia’s worst mass shooting in decades. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese initially resisted calls for a federal inquiry, citing concerns over social cohesion, but later bowed to public pressure. “I acknowledge the importance of addressing antisemitism within the Australian community,” Bell stated.

An interim report from the commissioner is expected by the end of April, with a full report due by the first anniversary of the attack, which took place on 14 December last year. The inquiry will include testimonies from security agencies, intelligence services, and families of the victims and survivors. One of the attackers, Sajid Akram, was shot dead by police at the scene, while his son Naveed Akram, critically injured, is now facing 59 charges, including 15 counts of murder.

To avoid prejudicing ongoing legal proceedings, the royal commission has been instructed to steer clear of certain matters, which may lead to some hearings being held in private. The aftermath of the shootings has also spurred new gun laws, a crackdown on hate speech, and increased powers to limit protests. This inquiry comes during a heated national debate in Australia regarding Israel, Gaza, and rising antisemitism, highlighted by recent protests during Israeli President Isaac Herzog’s visit to Sydney.