BRUSSELS

European leaders expressed outrage at a mass shooting at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, on Sunday that left at least 12 people dead and 29 others injured.

“There is no place for this hate violence and terrorism in our nation. Let me be clear, we will eradicate it,” Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told a news conference.

“This is a targeted attack on Jewish Australians,” he said, dubbing the incident “terrorism.”

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed her condolences on US social media company X, saying: "Europe stands with Australia and Jewish communities everywhere. We are united against violence, antisemitism and hatred."

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas condemned the "appalling act of violence" and expressed solidarity with Australia, while French President Emmanuel Macron called it an "antisemitic terrorist attack" and pledged to continue fighting hatred wherever it occurs.

Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin described the attack as "shocking and appalling," offering prayers for the victims, the injured, first responders, and all Australians affected.

Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker described the incident as "despicable" and voiced support for Australia, while Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni reaffirmed Italy's condemnation of all forms of violence and antisemitism.

Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever, Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof, Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda, and Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson also expressed shock, condolences, and solidarity with the victims and their families.

"Our thoughts are with the victims and everyone who has lost loved ones because of this cowardly act," Dutch Premier Schoof wrote on X.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer joined European leaders in condemning the attack, sending condolences to all those affected.

"Deeply distressing news from Australia. The United Kingdom sends our thoughts and condolences to everyone affected by the appalling attack in Bondi Beach," he said.