A prominent Jewish bakery in Sydney has announced its permanent closure, stating it can no longer guarantee the safety of its staff or customers in the aftermath of the deadly antisemitic terror attack at Bondi Beach. The shocking announcement comes as Australian authorities pledge to fast-track sweeping reforms to the nation's gun laws.
Community Reels as Bakery Shuts Its Doors
Avner's Bakery, a bagel shop run by well-known chef Ed Halmagyi, posted a heartbreaking notice on its window this week. The notice explained that the decision to close was made with a 'broken heart' after the owners concluded they could not keep an 'outwardly, publicly, proudly Jewish' business safe in the current climate.
The bakery detailed a two-year history of enduring 'almost ceaseless antisemitic harassment, vandalism and intimidation'. However, the Bondi Beach attack on Sunday 15 December, which saw two gunmen open fire at a Hanukkah celebration, was the final catalyst. The bakery had initially closed temporarily to 'process what's happened' but has now made the closure permanent.
Attack Prompts National Security and Legal Overhaul
The attack, which left 15 people dead and dozens injured, is Australia's deadliest shooting in three decades. Police have identified the attackers as 50-year-old Sajid Akram and his 24-year-old son, Naveed Akram. Preliminary evidence suggests the pair were inspired by the Islamic State group. Sajid Akram was shot dead at the scene, while his son emerged from a coma on Tuesday.
In response, the leader of New South Wales state announced on Wednesday 17 December that parliament would be recalled next week to pass wide-ranging reforms. These will focus on tightening firearms licensing and limits. The government will also review laws around large street protests following terror events to prevent further community tensions.
A Jewish Community in Mourning and Fear
The human toll of the attack continues to unfold. Funerals were held on Wednesday for two of the victims: British-born Rabbi Eli Schlanger and 39-year-old Rabbi Yaakov Levitan. A funeral for a 10-year-old girl named Matilda is scheduled for Thursday.
Members of Sydney's Jewish community have spoken openly about their fear. Chavi, a 27-year-old mother who was at the celebration with her seven-month-old son, described using her body as a shield during the 15-minute attack. She told the Sydney Morning Herald she now feels like a 'sitting duck' in Australia and is considering moving to Israel, a sentiment echoed by others.
Security remains heightened across Sydney, with a strong police presence at Bondi Beach where mourners have left floral tributes, and at synagogues during funerals. The closure of Avner's Bakery stands as a stark symbol of the profound impact the violence has had on the sense of security within the Australian Jewish community.
