Sydney: Volker Trk has condemned the recent heinous shootings in Sydney that targeted a Hannukah celebration on Bondi Beach, highlighting the persistent reality and abhorrence of antisemitism.
According to United Nations, the tragic event has brought to surface the urgent issue of extremist ideology, as Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that the killings were motivated by such beliefs. The alleged shooters, Sajid Akram, 50, and his son Naveed, 24, reportedly pledged allegiance to the ISIL terrorist group.
A viral video featuring bystander Ahmed al Ahmed, who bravely wrestled a gun away from one of the assailants, has emerged, and the fruit shop owner has been hailed as a hero for his intervention that saved numerous lives. The UN human rights chief emphasized the importance of recommitting to our common humanity and fighting against such hateful rhetoric and crimes that remain prevalent today.
UNHCR chief Filippo Grandi has also called for global solidarity to counter the rising scapegoa
ting of refugees. Speaking at a meeting on refugees in Geneva, Grandi urged host countries to recognize they are not alone in their support for asylum seekers. He stressed that solidarity is crucial in saving lives, especially as refugees continue to be vilified and their suffering exploited by traffickers and politicians alike. Grandi highlighted the 1951 Refugee Convention’s repeated attacks and the need for international support to strengthen systems for those displaced from their homes.
Meanwhile, in Ukraine, UN-supported aid teams are continuing their critical efforts amid ongoing Russian attacks. The UN aid coordination office, OCHA, reported widespread strikes in the port city of Odesa, Mykolaiv, and Kherson, involving 300 missiles and drones, which have left around one million people without electricity, water, and heating. The urgent aid provided includes shelter and emergency protection, as freezing temperatures exacerbate the already dire conditions.
Authorities have reported that recent hostili
ties and attacks have resulted in at least nine civilian deaths and over 70 injuries, including three children. The Odesa region, heavily impacted by repeated attacks, saw six civilians injured and significant damage to energy infrastructure, leaving many residents without basic services. Deputy UN Spokesperson Farhan Haq noted that while power and water supply have been restored for some, many residents remain without heating, posing severe challenges as winter conditions worsen. The UN and its partners continue to offer vital humanitarian support, including hot meals, bottled water, and shelter materials.