Commissioner assures Bondi families she will probe Hanukkah security, police delays
Sydney Morning Herald
by Matthew KnottFebruary 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
In a significant move to address concerns over security and police response following the tragic Bondi Beach terror attack, Virginia Bell, the commissioner leading the Royal Commission on Anti-Semitism and Social Cohesion, assured survivors and families that her inquiry would thoroughly examine both the delays in police arrival and the level of security at the Hanukkah event. During a private meeting with approximately 80 survivors, witnesses, and relatives, Bell emphasized the royal commission's commitment to understanding why the attack occurred and how it unfolded. She also acknowledged potential intelligence failures and questioned the adequacy of the police presence during the event, with only two officers initially on-site.
Additionally, the Albanese government announced new legal protections for those providing evidence to the royal commission, aiming to strengthen its ability to handle sensitive information. Bell highlighted that delays in receiving information from agencies seeking legal advice had impacted the inquiry's progress. She reiterated her determination to meet the December 14 deadline for submitting the report, though she did not rule out requesting an extension if necessary. Despite these challenges, participants expressed optimism about Bell's dedication to uncovering the truth and addressing concerns raised during the meeting.
The meeting also addressed broader issues, including calls for the royal commission to investigate alleged bias in media coverage of Middle East issues. Bell ruled out accepting eyewitness testimony that could prejudice the ongoing
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/26/2026