Ask Onix
King Charles expresses horror over Bondi Beach shooting
King Charles III has condemned the fatal attack at a Hanukkah celebration in Sydney, calling it a "most dreadful antisemitic terrorist attack." At least 11 people died, and 29 others were hospitalized after gunfire erupted at Bondi Beach on Sunday, police confirmed.
The monarch, alongside Queen Camilla, said they were "appalled and saddened" by the violence. In a statement, he emphasized that the "light of the Hanukkah festival will always triumph over the darkness of such evil," praising Australia's resilience and community spirit.
UK leaders pledge solidarity with Jewish community
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer labeled the attack "sickening" and vowed to strengthen security at Jewish events in Britain. In a post on X, he declared, "The United Kingdom will always stand with Australia and the Jewish community," adding that the government was collaborating with the Community Security Trust (CST) to enhance policing during Hanukkah.
The Metropolitan Police announced increased patrols and engagement with Jewish communities, acknowledging the heightened fear following the attack. "Jewish communities face a disproportionate threat," the force stated, noting that the timing-during Hanukkah-would amplify concerns.
Calls for heightened security amid global antisemitism
The UK's Jewish Leadership Council (JLC) urged authorities to protect Hanukkah celebrations, which begin Sunday evening and last eight days. "We are devastated that Jews in Sydney were targeted for their identity," the JLC said, citing a recent Yom Kippur attack in Manchester as evidence of persistent hatred.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan confirmed the Met would boost visibility in Jewish neighborhoods, while Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood reiterated government coordination with CST. Police Scotland also increased patrols around synagogues and Jewish venues.
"This should be a celebration, but our community is mourning," said Green Party leader Zack Polanski, en route to a Hanukkah event. "We stand with Australia and all who face this fear."
International responses and reflections
The Board of Deputies of British Jews offered support to Australian partners and called for global action against antisemitism. Labour peer Lord Levy suggested world leaders convene to address rising violence, questioning, "Why is this hatred escalating?"
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper advised British nationals affected by the shooting to contact the Sydney consulate. Former England cricket captain Michael Vaughan, in Australia for the Ashes, recounted sheltering in a restaurant during the attack, describing it as "scary."
Hanukkah's significance
Hanukkah, or Chanukah, is an eight-day Jewish festival of light observed in December. The JLC stressed the need to ensure its safe celebration despite ongoing threats.
