President Donald Trump opened the White House Hanukkah celebration by extending “love and prayers” to the people of Australia, referencing what he described as an antisemitic terrorist attack at Sydney’s Bondi Beach. Speaking from the East Room on the third night of the Jewish holiday, the former president began the ceremony by paying tribute to victims of the incident, which he stated had claimed 15 lives and injured 25 more. He underscored a global imperative for unity against what he termed “radical Islamic terrorism.”

Australian officials, as cited in reports referenced during the event, had reportedly characterized the assault, which occurred at an event identified as Chanukah by the Sea, as a “terrorist attack inspired by Islamic State.” These reports further detailed that the suspects involved were a father and son, aged 50 and 24, with the older individual reportedly killed and his son receiving medical treatment in hospital. This incident, as framed by the former president, set a somber tone for the commencement of the traditional holiday gathering.

Mr. Trump conveyed profound sympathy, stating, “Let me take a moment to send the love and prayers to our entire nation, to the people of Australia, and especially all those affected by the horrific and antisemitic terrorist attack.” He added that the nation joined in mourning the deceased and prayed for the swift recovery of the wounded, some of whom were “very horrifically wounded,” emphasizing that “all nations must stand together against the evil forces of radical Islamic terrorism, and we’re doing that.”

Following these initial remarks concerning the tragic events in Sydney, Mr. Trump’s near 45-minute address swiftly transitioned into more familiar political territory. He notably boasted about his personal health, asserting himself as “the healthiest” among past and present presidents, including Barack Obama and current President Joe Biden, a recurring theme in his public appearances since leaving office. This shift marked a departure from the solemn beginning of the celebration.

The former president then invited prominent supporters to the stage, including billionaire donor Miriam Adelson, whom he publicly acknowledged for her substantial financial contributions. Mr. Trump stated that Ms. Adelson had donated approximately $250 million to his various campaigns over the years, prompting a series of laudatory remarks from those called upon to speak, underscoring the event’s dual nature as both a holiday observance and a political rally.

In a segment that drew sharp attention, Mr. Trump issued a stark warning that the United States Congress was “becoming antisemitic.” He specifically singled out Minnesota Representative Ilhan Omar, a frequent target of his criticism, alleging that “she hates Jewish people.” He also referenced “AOC plus three,” a common moniker for Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and other progressive Democratic congresswomen, implying their involvement in this perceived trend.

Mr. Trump further elaborated on his concerns regarding antisemitism within legislative bodies, claiming it was “getting progressively worse, less so in the Senate, but the Senate starting also, you get glimmers.” These accusations align with a broader pattern of his rhetoric, often employing strong language to frame political opponents and cultural trends, particularly concerning issues related to Israel and Jewish communities. His remarks have often ignited fierce debate across the political spectrum.

Shifting to foreign policy, the former president also took credit for his administration’s perceived role in the release of Israeli hostages following the October 7 attacks. He asserted that his efforts had contributed to what he termed “legitimate peace in the Middle East,” a claim that has been a hallmark of his post-presidency commentary on international relations, particularly regarding the Abraham Accords and regional stability.

As the lengthy speech neared its conclusion, Mr. Trump attempted to steer the discourse back to the essence of Hanukkah, known as the Festival of Light. He invoked the holiday’s symbolic message, stating, “The story of Hanukkah reminds us that light will always prevail over darkness and faith and triumph over fear,” aiming to connect his address to the traditional themes of hope and resilience inherent in the celebration.

However, even in these concluding remarks, the former president veered off into a final, seemingly unrelated tangent, referencing his “now $400 million ballroom.” This abrupt transition underscored the often-unpredictable and wide-ranging nature of his public addresses, where personal anecdotes and business interests frequently intertwine with political commentary and ceremonial duties, leaving a distinctive impression on attendees and observers alike.

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Keywords: Donald Trump, White House Hanukkah, Australia terrorist attack, Antisemitism Congress, Miriam Adelson, Ilhan Omar criticism, Middle East peace, Radical Islamic terrorism