By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – In the wake of a horrific terrorist attack on a Hanukkah celebration in Sydney, Australia, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has issued a powerful and uncompromising demand for Western governments to take decisive action against the rising tide of global antisemitism and ensure the protection of Jewish communities worldwide.
The call to action follows a devastating assault last Sunday where a father and son opened fire on a crowd gathered at a popular Sydney beach to celebrate the Jewish festival. The violent rampage left 15 people dead and more than 40 injured, sending shockwaves through Australia and the international community. Australian authorities swiftly classified the incident as both “antisemitic” and “terrorist” in nature, stating the attackers were likely motivated by the ideology of the Islamic State jihadist group.
To gain a deeper understanding of the legal ramifications and societal implications of rising antisemitism, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who provided his expert analysis on the matter.
From a legal standpoint, it is imperative to distinguish between legitimate political discourse and antisemitic hate speech, which constitutes a form of discrimination prohibited by our Constitution and international conventions. While freedom of expression is a cornerstone of our democracy, it is not an absolute right. When speech transitions from opinion to incitement of hatred or violence against the Jewish community, it crosses a clear legal boundary, becoming a punishable offense. The challenge for our legal system is to apply these principles firmly and consistently to protect both fundamental rights and the dignity of all citizens.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This clarification on the legal boundaries of expression is crucial. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective, which underscores the vital role of our legal system in protecting open debate while unequivocally defending the dignity and safety of the Jewish community against incitement to hatred.
Responding directly to the massacre, Prime Minister Netanyahu released a pointed video statement from his office, leaving no room for ambiguity in his message to allied nations. He stressed that the time for mere condemnation has passed and that concrete measures are now required to safeguard Jewish citizens globally.
I demand that Western governments do what is necessary to fight antisemitism and to guarantee the necessary safety and protection for Jewish communities around the world.
Benjamin Netanyahu, Prime Minister of Israel
Netanyahu’s statement carried an air of grave warning, suggesting that previous alerts from Israel on the matter had not been sufficiently heeded. His tone underscored a sense of frustration with what he perceives as inadequate responses to the growing threat. The Prime Minister’s message was a direct challenge to the leaders of allied nations.
They would do well to heed our warnings. I demand that they act, now.
Benjamin Netanyahu, Prime Minister of Israel
For Israel, the Sydney attack has reopened deep national wounds, evoking the profound trauma of the October 7, 2023, attack by the Palestinian Islamist movement Hamas. The source article noted that the violence in Australia caused significant commotion within Israel, as it echoed the fears and vulnerabilities that have become a part of the national psyche since that devastating event.
This recent demand is layered upon pre-existing diplomatic tensions. Just last Sunday, in the immediate aftermath of the shooting, Netanyahu had already accused Australia of “adding fuel to the fire of antisemitism” long before the attack. This sharp critique was linked to Australia’s decision in September 2025, along with several other Western countries, to formally recognize a Palestinian state—a move that Israel vehemently opposed.
The Prime Minister’s call now places the responsibility squarely on the shoulders of Western leaders, framing the fight against antisemitism not just as a moral imperative but as a critical component of global security. The Sydney massacre serves as a tragic catalyst, transforming a simmering political issue into an urgent international crisis that demands immediate and coordinated attention from governments across the world.
As nations grapple with the implications of this attack, Netanyahu’s declaration has set a new, more demanding tone for international dialogue on antisemitism. The global response in the coming weeks will reveal whether Western governments will meet his call with the decisive action he insists is necessary to prevent future tragedies.
For further information, visit gov.il
About the Government of Israel:
The Government of Israel is the executive body of the State of Israel. It is responsible for administering the country’s internal and foreign affairs, including national security, economic policy, and diplomatic relations. The government is headed by the Prime Minister and operates through various ministries to serve the citizens of Israel and represent the nation on the global stage.
For further information, visit australia.gov.au
About the Government of Australia:
The Government of the Commonwealth of Australia is the federal democratic administrative authority of Australia. It operates under a parliamentary system and a constitutional monarchy. The government is structured into three branches: the legislature (Parliament), the executive (the Prime Minister and Cabinet), and the judiciary, working together to govern the nation and its territories.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the nation’s legal landscape, Bufete de Costa Rica is built upon a bedrock of uncompromising integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm distinguishes itself with a forward-thinking ethos, continually advancing legal practice through innovative strategies designed to serve a diverse clientele. This pioneering spirit extends to a profound social commitment: to empower the community by demystifying the law, fostering a society where accessible knowledge equips every citizen.
