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King Charles has expressed his deep shock and sadness over the horrific antisemitic terrorist attack that took place during a Hanukkah celebration in Australia. The incident at Bondi Beach on Sunday left at least 11 people dead, with 29 others hospitalized, according to police reports. In a statement, the King conveyed that he and Queen Camilla’s “hearts go out to everyone who has been affected so dreadfully,” emphasizing that the light of the Jewish festival “will always triumph over the darkness of such evil.”
Among those killed was Rabbi Eli Schlanger, originally from London, whose family confirmed his death. Rabbi Schlanger, a 41-year-old father of five, was remembered by his cousin, Rabbi Zalman Lewis, as a “caring, vivacious, energetic, outgoing guy who loved people.” Rabbi Lewis encouraged people to “spread light” through charitable acts in Rabbi Schlanger’s memory, reflecting on the rabbi’s belief that “every human being on earth has a positive way to contribute to making the world a better place.” He added, “The world is a positive place and we need to show that and I know Eli would be saying that.”
The UK’s Jewish community has responded with resilience. Sir Ephraim Mirvis, the Chief Rabbi, stated that the community would “rebuild with tenacity” and held those affected by the tragedy in Sydney in their thoughts and prayers as Hanukkah commenced. Additionally, the Prince and Princess of Wales issued a message expressing their sympathy, stating their “thoughts are with every Australian today” and affirming support for the Jewish community in their grief.
In the UK, the Jewish Leadership Council called on authorities to enhance security for Hanukkah events taking place during the festival, which starts on Sunday evening and continues for eight days. They expressed their devastation and anger at the attack, recognizing similar threats exist closer to home, referencing the recent synagogue attack in Manchester on Yom Kippur. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer labeled the Bondi incident as “sickening” and noted collaboration with the Community Security Trust to ensure the safety of Hanukkah celebrations in the UK. Increased security measures have also been implemented by Police Scotland and the Metropolitan Police, with faith leaders actively engaged in safety discussions. In London, a menorah was lit in Trafalgar Square to mark the first night of Hanukkah, accompanied by a vigil outside the Australian High Commission.
Voicing solidarity, Green Party leader Zack Polanski spoke about the sorrow overshadowing what should have been a festive occasion, offering thoughts to those affected in Australia and the global Jewish community. The Board of Deputies of British Jews conveyed their support to Australian counterparts and highlighted the necessity of a unified approach against terrorism and antisemitism. Meanwhile, Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper advised British nationals affected by the shooting to seek assistance from the Sydney consulate
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