Additional Coverage:
- Australian state weighs ban on ‘globalize the intifada’ chants, masked protesters in wake of Hanukkah attack (foxnews.com)
New South Wales Proposes Ban on “Globalize the Intifada” Chants Following Deadly Bondi Beach Attack
SYDNEY – In a swift response to escalating concerns about antisemitism and recent violence, the Australian state of New South Wales (NSW) is moving to outlaw chants of “globalize the intifada,” a phrase widely condemned as an antisemitic call to violence against Jewish people. The proposed ban comes less than a week after a horrific mass shooting at a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach, which claimed the lives of at least 15 individuals.
NSW Premier Chris Minns announced Saturday that the new legislation would empower police to demand that protesters remove face coverings during demonstrations. “Hate speech or incitement of hatred has no place in our society,” Minns stated, as reported by The Associated Press.
He further emphasized, “Horrific, recent events have shown that the chant ‘globalize the intifada’ is hate speech and encourages violence in our community. You’re running a very risky racket if you’re thinking of using that phrase.”
The proposed ban extends beyond specific chants, also prohibiting public displays of ISIS flags or other extremist symbols. Those found in violation of the new laws could face penalties of up to two years in prison and substantial fines.
The move follows confirmation from Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese that intelligence agencies believe the Bondi Beach shooting was inspired by ISIS. Albanese, who previously announced a gun buyback plan and a “day of reflection” in the wake of the tragedy, pledged to introduce broader measures to combat radicalization and hate, including expanding the definition of hate speech offenses.
Australia has experienced a notable rise in antisemitism, particularly in the months following Hamas’ October 7 attacks against Israel. Tragically, Rabbi Eli Schlanger, a respected member of the Jewish community who was among those killed in the Bondi Beach attack, had previously voiced his concerns about this alarming trend in a letter to Prime Minister Albanese, imploring him “not to betray the Jewish people.”
This legislative push underscores a determined effort by Australian authorities to confront and curb the spread of hate and violence within their communities.