Official Statement
International Centre for Human Rights – Canada (ICHR)

The International Centre for Human Rights – Canada condemns, in the strongest and most unambiguous terms, the antisemitic terrorist attack that targeted a Hanukkah celebration in Sydney, Australia.

There is no justification, political, religious, or ideological for the deliberate targeting of civilians, the spreading of fear, or the normalization of brutality. Said; Darya, Communication Director at ICHR.

This was not an isolated incident, nor was it random. It was a deliberate act of hate, driven by violent extremist ideology, aimed at terrorizing a Jewish community exercising its right to live, worship, and celebrate freely.

An attack on Jewish people anywhere is an attack on the very foundations of democratic societies freedom, safety, and human dignity. These values are indivisible. When they are assaulted in Australia, they are under threat in Canada, the United Kingdom, Europe, and beyond.

This act exposes a dangerous reality the world can no longer afford to ignore: extremist ideologies connected to terrorist networks are operating across borders.

They exploit open societies, infiltrate communities, and spread hatred with the intent to intimidate, radicalize, and kill. Terrorism and antisemitism are inseparable from this threat and must be condemned without hesitation, justification, or political convenience.

ICHR calls on governments particularly Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and European nations to act with clarity and courage. Public safety is not optional. Enforcing the law, protecting vulnerable communities, and confronting extremist threats before lives are lost is a fundamental responsibility of the state. said:  Ardeshir Zarezadeh ICHR Director. 

Free speech does not include intimidation, glorification of terror, or incitement to violence. Tolerance must never extend to those who seek to destroy the freedoms it protects.

Political correctness cannot replace due diligence. Turning a blind eye to extremist backgrounds, networks, and ideologies whether through negligence or fear of controversy places innocent lives at risk. Delay and denial only empower hatred. The time to act is now.

We stand in unwavering solidarity with Jewish communities in Australia and around the world. ICHR will continue to speak without fear, demand accountability, and advocate for zero tolerance toward antisemitism, terrorism, and all forms of violent extremism.

Human rights cannot coexist with terror. Peace cannot be built on excuses. Justice cannot survive double standards.

The world must choose clarity over confusion, courage over comfort, and unity over division. Terrorism must be condemned everywhere, every time, without hesitation and without exception.

International Center for Human Rights (ICHR) Justice. Protection. Human dignity.