MASSACRE: 15 Plus Killed in Islamist Hanukkah Attack in Australia

In this episode, Ben Shapiro addresses multiple tragic and significant incidents around the world, including a deadly Islamist attack on the Jewish community at a Hanukkah event in Australia, a mass shooting at Brown University, and a homicide involving filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife in Los Angeles. He also examines rising anti-Semitism, critiques government responses, discusses gun control debates in the U.S., and touches on international developments including U.S. military casualties in Syria and ongoing diplomatic tension involving Ukraine and Russia. Interwoven with commentary on current political and social dynamics, Shapiro highlights issues of security, extremism, and political accountability.

Islamist Attack in Australia

Shapiro opens with a harrowing account of a terror attack at a Hanukkah celebration on Sydney's Bondi Beach where two radicalized Muslim gunmen, a father and son legally armed with multiple firearms despite Australia's strict gun laws, killed at least 15 people and injured over 40. The attack, conducted at an event organized by Kabad, a Jewish outreach group, targeted one of Sydney's most Jewish-populated areas during a family-friendly holiday festival. Shapiro stresses the unprecedented nature of this mass shooting as Australia's deadliest in nearly 30 years and criticizes the police response, which he describes as inert and characterized by officers freezing instead of confronting the attackers during a 20-minute shooting spree.

Eyewitness testimonies, including that of a Holocaust survivor who died protecting his wife and a survivor who had recently lived in Israel fighting anti-Semitism, underscore the brutality and terror of the event. Shapiro highlights the heroism of a Muslim bystander, Ahmed Al Ahmed, who disarmed one of the gunmen despite being unarmed and inexperienced with firearms. This act is lauded by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a pinnacle of bravery.

Rising Anti-Semitism and Political Responses

Shapiro delves into the broader context of increasing anti-Semitism in Australia and globally, tracing it to radical Islamist ideology and a failure by governments to adequately address the threat. He cites repeated incidents of synagogue firebombings, vandalism, and hate speech in Sydney, especially following the October 7 Hamas attacks on Israel, which sparked pro-Hamas rallies including some where chants of "Gas the Jews" were heard near the Sydney Opera House. Shapiro sharply criticizes Australia's Labor government and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for their perceived failures to combat anti-Semitism and for policies seen as appeasing extremism.

Shapiro references letters from Netanyahu to Albanese warning that political signaling in favor of a Palestinian state intensifies anti-Semitic violence and emboldens terror actors. He also notes attempts by some media figures to frame the attack as a false flag, which he condemns. The Jewish community in Australia has reportedly seen a dramatic increase in anti-Semitic incidents, with official statistics showing a significant spike in such events over recent years.

Brown University Mass Shooting

Attention shifts to a separate tragic event at Brown University where a gunman opened fire in an academic building, killing two and injuring nine. The victims included a first-year student and a recent high school graduate. Though the motive remains unclear and speculation is withheld pending investigation, the shooting occurred during a study group session and caused widespread fear and distress. Law enforcement detained and released a person of interest, with the suspect still at large.

Shapiro comments on the predictable political response, highlighting Democrat calls for gun control while questioning the effectiveness of such measures in preventing these tragedies. He contrasts the intense focus on mass shootings with the relative silence during frequent gun violence in cities like Chicago, implying political inconsistencies in the debate. Statements by politicians about White House inaction or gun industry influence are characterized as partisan rather than practical.

Gun Control Debate

The discussion deepens into the complexities of American gun policy, reflecting skepticism about the current political approach to gun control. Shapiro voices doubt that any legislative proposals will effectively reduce gun violence, emphasizing the challenge of balancing rights and security. He notes that Democrats have yet to offer specific, realistic policies beyond broad calls for firearm confiscation, which remain unpopular and largely unfeasible. Republicans' willingness to negotiate on some healthcare provisions related to costs is contrasted with persistent gridlock on gun legislation.

U.S. Casualties in Syria Attack

Moving to international affairs, Shapiro covers a deadly attack on U.S. forces in Syria, where a former ISIS insurgent embedded within Syrian security forces killed three Americans, including two National Guard soldiers and a civilian interpreter, and wounded others. The assault occurred at a security facility and highlights concerns over infiltration and extremism in Syrian military units despite nominal U.S.-Syrian cooperation against ISIS. Shapiro expresses skepticism over Syria's leadership and alliances, noting ongoing ties between President Assad's regime, former ISIS members, and Turkey. The U.S. promises retaliation, though cautious optimism is tempered by the complex regional realities.

Homicide of Rob Reiner and Wife

A shocking homicide case in Los Angeles involving director Rob Reiner and his wife Michelle Singer is recounted. Both were found dead from knife wounds, and police are investigating with suspicion falling on a family member. Shapiro notes the tragedy's personal and cultural impact, acknowledging Reiner's significant contributions to Hollywood cinema. The family's distress is acknowledged, and the incident is treated with solemnity beyond political divides.

Healthcare Legislative Negotiations

Shapiro discusses ongoing U.S. political negotiations over healthcare, focusing on a Republican-led bill aimed at reforming Obamacare subsidies and pharmacy benefit management while maintaining cost-sharing reductions popular within the party. Senator Bill Cassidy expresses cautious hope for bipartisan agreement on extending subsidies for certain Americans coupled with anti-fraud reforms. The discussion highlights the dynamics between Democrats and Republicans, with Cassidy blaming Democrats for obstructing progress despite his willingness to compromise. The political implications of expiring subsidies ahead of election seasons are noted.

Trump Tariffs and Economic Outlook

The episode moves to economic policy concerning tariffs implemented during the Trump administration. The administration is rushing to finalize tariff payments to prevent potential Supreme Court invalidation and consequent refunds to companies. Shapiro outlines the legal complexities and ongoing lawsuits aiming to challenge the tariffs. The economic effects are described as mixed: tariffs have generated significant revenue and contributed to increased employment overall, but have not revived manufacturing or drastically altered trade balances. Experts are divided on whether strikes against tariffs would destabilize the economy or pave the way for growth.

Kevin Hassid, a notable economic advisor linked to Trump, expresses optimism about imminent economic expansion possibly supported by artificial intelligence, envisioning a historic period of growth if current trends continue.

Ukraine-Russia Peace Talks

Shapiro reviews recent diplomatic efforts to negotiate peace in Ukraine, highlighting discussions between U.S. envoys and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Berlin. Progress is claimed, but Ukraine remains reluctant to concede territory still under its control. European leaders encourage caution against premature deals, and doubts persist about Russian sincerity, with Shapiro emphasizing Putin's longstanding strategic goals and rejecting notions of Russian moderation. The notion of multiple separate peace agreements encompassing security, reconstruction, and political settlements is presented as complex and uncertain.

Promotion of "Rise of the Merlin"

Towards the episode's close, Shapiro promotes an original entertainment project titled "Rise of the Merlin," a high-budget, ambitious series based on legendary tales. He underscores the venture as a bold move by Daily Wire, intended to offer distinctive content unavailable elsewhere, inviting listeners to become members for early access and to support independent media innovation.

Sponsor Messages and Advertisement

Throughout the episode, Shapiro integrates sponsor messages promoting home security system SimplySafe, gourmet meal kit delivery Cook Unity, academic programs at Grand Canyon University, business e-commerce platform Shopify, and grooming products from Jeremy's Razors—each tied to themes of safety, convenience, education, entrepreneurship, and personal care. These promotions punctuate discussions with practical offers for listeners.