A former Hamas hostage recently shared with Fox News Digital about his premonition regarding rising antisemitism and the tragic Bondi Beach shooting. Eli Sharabi, who spent 491 days as a hostage in Gaza, had warned Australian leaders about the escalating antisemitism months before the deadly attack at Bondi Beach.
During his visit to Australia in June, Sharabi met with Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles and Foreign Minister Penny Wong, expressing his concerns about the growing antisemitism. He had forewarned them that a hate crime would occur in Australia if actions were not taken to address the issue promptly.
Sharabi vividly recalled telling the officials that they would bear responsibility for any hate crime due to a lack of strong opposition against antisemitism. Unfortunately, his prediction came true with the tragic Bondi Beach shooting, leaving him saddened by the outcome.
In response to the shooting, Australian leaders have pledged to strengthen laws against those spreading antisemitism and online abuse, enhance education on antisemitism, and expedite the cancellation of visas for individuals promoting hate.
Sharabi, who was released from captivity on Feb. 8, 2025, following the 2023 massacre in Gaza, expressed his grief over the loss of his wife and daughters during the attack on Israel. Since his release, he has been advocating for the release of other hostages and sharing his experiences with audiences worldwide.
Reflecting on the Bondi Beach shooting, Sharabi drew parallels to the persecution of European Jews in the 1940s, emphasizing the need for unity against antisemitism. He expressed gratitude for his freedom and the support he received during his captivity, vowing to cherish every moment.
While planning to relocate to London with his family was disrupted, Sharabi now envisions a quiet life in central Israel once the last hostage from Gaza is returned. He acknowledged the challenges of returning to his former home in Be’eri and expressed his intent to seek a fresh start in a new location.
Through his experiences and advocacy, Sharabi hopes to raise awareness about the impact of antisemitism and promote unity in combating hate crimes. His resilience and determination serve as a testament to the power of hope and the importance of standing up against injustice.
