Jewish Leaders Condemn Bondi Beach Terror Attack, Call for Solidarity

A terror attack during a Chanukah celebration at Bondi Beach, Australia, has resulted in the tragic deaths of twelve individuals, including one of the shooters, and left approximately 29 others injured. The event, organized by the Chabad community, was intended to be a joyful gathering but was shattered by violence on this significant occasion.

Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis expressed his sorrow in a statement shared on social media, referring to the attack as an “unspeakable atrocity” that is “absolutely heartbreaking.” He urged people to join him in prayer for the victims, listing the Hebrew names of those injured.

Prominent leaders within the Progressive Judaism community, Rabbi Josh Levy and Rabbi Charley Baginsky, voiced their shock and heartbreak over the incident. In their statement, they extended condolences to the families of the deceased, emphasizing their thoughts are with the Australian Jewish community during this overwhelming time. “Violence at a moment meant for light, gathering, and celebration is profoundly devastating,” they remarked. They called for resilience, wishing for the injured to find strength in their recovery.

The Board of Deputies of British Jews announced it is in contact with its Australian counterparts at the Executive Council of Australian Jewry to express solidarity and offer support. They have also reached out to the UK Government, which is closely monitoring the situation, to discuss potential responses. The board highlighted that terrorism and antisemitism are international challenges requiring collective action.

Just days prior to the attack, the Board was involved in a solidarity trip to Australia as part of the J7 coalition, advocating for stronger measures against antisemitism.

The Conference of European Rabbis (CER), headquartered in Germany, also issued a statement expressing devastation over the attack, which they described as a festival of light being “shattered by terror.” Chief Rabbi Pinchas Goldschmidt, president of CER, mourned with the Sydney Jewish community, calling for a confrontation against unchecked hatred in the West.

In response to the attack, the Jewish Leadership Council (JLC) expressed deep anger and sadness. They plan to collaborate with law enforcement to ensure the safety of public events, including a menorah lighting ceremony scheduled for Trafalgar Square.

Meanwhile, the Community Security Trust (CST) is holding meetings to discuss enhancing security and policing for Chanukah-related public gatherings in the UK.

As the global Jewish community mourns, the focus remains on healing and solidarity in the face of this tragic event.