I’m deeply saddened by the terrorist attack in Australia that took innocent lives. Our hearts are with the people of Australia following the horrific terrorist attack in Sydney’s Bondi Beach area, where gunmen targeted a Hanukkah celebration and at least 12 innocent people were killed and dozens more wounded. Authorities have described this atrocity as a terrorist act aimed at the Jewish community, taking place on the first night of Hanukkah - a time meant for peace, joy, and hope. We stand in solidarity with the Australian people and the global Jewish community as they mourn and seek justice. America must stand with our Australian allies and the victims’ families. This tragedy is a reminder that terrorism remains a global threat and that strong intelligence sharing, border and visa integrity, and proactive counter-terrorism are essential to keeping people safe. Public safety should never be a partisan issue because protecting lives is the first duty of government.(John E Deaton)