UPDATE: A devastating terror attack at Bondi Beach, Australia has claimed at least 12 lives and left 29 injured, shaking the Jewish community during a Chabad-organised Chanukah celebration. The horrifying incident, which occurred earlier today, involved two shooters, one of whom is among the deceased.
Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis described the attack as an “unspeakable atrocity” in a poignant statement shared on social media, urging the community to join in prayer for those affected. Rabbi Mirvis listed the Hebrew names of the injured, emphasizing the profound sadness felt by many.
Progressive Judaism co-leaders Rabbi Josh Levy and Rabbi Charley Baginsky expressed their shock and heartbreak over the horrific violence. They stated, “Our deepest condolences go to the families and loved ones of those lost, and our thoughts are with the entire Australian Jewish community at this unimaginably painful time.” They highlighted the devastating impact of violence during a moment meant for “light, gathering, and celebration,” pledging solidarity with all affected.
The Board of Deputies of British Jews is in close contact with its Australian counterparts at the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, expressing solidarity and offering support. They confirmed they are liaising with the UK Government, which is closely monitoring the situation and discussing the UK’s response. “The scourges of terrorism and antisemitism are shared, international challenges and need concerted and determined action to defeat them,” they stated.
Only days prior to this tragedy, the Board participated in the J7 coalition’s solidarity trip to Australia, advocating for stronger measures against rising antisemitism.
The Conference of European Rabbis (CER), based in Germany, expressed its devastation over the murderous attack, calling it a “festival of light shattered by terror.” Chief Rabbi Pinchas Goldschmidt mourned with the Jewish community in Sydney, emphasizing that “brutal hatred, unchecked in the West, must be confronted and stopped.”
The Jewish Leadership Council (JLC) voiced their anger and devastation, announcing plans to ensure safety at events scheduled for this week, including a public menorah lighting ceremony in Trafalgar Square on December 12, 2023.
Meanwhile, the CST is convening meetings this morning to discuss enhancing security and policing for Chanukah-related public events across the UK.
As authorities continue to gather information on the attack, the global Jewish community stands united in grief, reflecting on the urgent need for safety and solidarity in the face of escalating violence.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
