Libby Burke, vice-president of the Queensland Jewish Board of Deputies, has spoken about her sense of safety in Tel Aviv compared to Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley at night. Reflecting on her experiences as a single woman, Burke said she feels more secure walking the streets of Tel Aviv than in some Australian urban areas after dark.

Burke also recalled the shock and horror she felt on October 7, when news emerged of the attacks on Israel. Driving toward the Sunshine Coast, she grappled with the severity of the situation as details of the massacre became known. She described the Israeli people as peace-loving and deeply connected to nature and cultural pursuits, emphasizing their innocence amid the violence.

She highlighted the scale and intent of the attacks, characterizing them as a genocidal assault reaching deep into Israeli territory. Burke praised the Israel Defense Force (IDF) for its efforts to protect civilians amid the ongoing conflict, underscoring the military’s focus on minimizing harm to non-combatants.

Having traveled to Israel ten times, Burke expressed a strong personal connection to the country, admiring its history of democratic governance, innovation, and rich cultural heritage. Despite the recent violence, she voiced optimism about Israel’s future, stressing the resilience and determination of the Jewish people. Burke said she believes Israel will endure, continue to thrive, and remain a beacon on the global stage.