Australian politician Pauline Hanson has amplified a series of violent and threatening messages posted on social media in the wake of the Bondi Junction terror attack. The One Nation leader shared screenshots of the posts, which she claims are a direct result of the nation's immigration policies.
Hate-Filled Messages Circulate After Tragedy
The screenshots, originally posted on Snapchat on Wednesday, contained explicit threats of further violence. One message read, 'There is much more to come you martyr dogs. Islam will rule and you Aussie scum will see that soon.' Another warned, 'Be careful on New Year's you Aussie scum.'
The hate-filled posts attempted to link the horrific massacre at Bondi Beach on Sunday – where two alleged gunmen took 15 lives – to the ongoing pro-Palestine protests across Australia. These demonstrations began after Hamas attacked Israeli civilians on October 7, 2023, sparking the war in Gaza.
Hanson Blames Immigration for Imported 'Hate'
In her response, Senator Hanson directly attributed the threatening rhetoric and the underlying community tensions to Australia's approach to immigration. 'This is the hate we've imported as a result of unfettered, mass immigration,' she stated emphatically. 'It must end!'
Hanson argued that the conflict between Islamic and Jewish groups, representing opposing sides of the Gaza war, has been inflamed by new arrivals entering communities that had previously co-existed. She defended her position against accusations of divisiveness, stating her role was to 'keep Australians safe, secure and united.'
Public Reaction and a Divided Response
The reaction to Hanson's post was sharply divided. Hundreds of commenters supported her stance, with many calling for individuals who harbour hatred towards Australia to leave the country. 'If you don't want to fit in, go back to where you came from,' wrote one supporter.
However, others criticised the senator for perpetuating a cycle of hatred. One commenter responded, 'Hate vs hate is not the solution, Pauline.' Hanson quickly rebutted this, asserting that pointing out perceived problems is not hate speech and vowing not to stop speaking out 'because I might hurt someone's feelings.'
The incident has sparked a fresh debate about community safety, free speech, and integration in Australia. NSW Police have been contacted for comment regarding the investigation into the original Snapchat posts.
