King Charles has stated that he is “horrified and deeply saddened by the horrific antisemitic terrorist attack on the Jewish people” following the attack during a festival in Australia.
At least 12 people were killed and 29 others were hospitalized after the shooting at Bondi Beach on Sunday, police reported.
In his statement, King Charles said that the hearts of he and Queen Camilla “are with all those so deeply affected by this tragedy.” He also praised the spirit of the community and the love that shines strongly in Australia, adding that the light of the Hanukkah festival will always triumph over the darkness of such evil.
Among the victims was Rabbi Eli Schlanger, a UK-born rabbi, confirmed by his family. The 41-year-old father of five was described by his cousin, Rabbi Zalman Lewis, as “vibrant, energetic, full of life, and extraordinarily warm and sociable.”
Speaking to the BBC, Lewis called on people to “spread light” through acts of kindness in Rabbi Schlanger’s name.
“Every human being has a positive way to contribute to making the world a better place. We must continue to spread light and show this,” he said.
The Prince and Princess of Wales also expressed their condolences, saying their thoughts are with the people of Australia and the families of the victims, and expressing solidarity with the Jewish community.
The Metropolitan Police in London confirmed that they are increasing police presence through additional patrols and direct engagement with the Jewish community.
“It is a terrible reality that Jewish communities worldwide continue to face increased threats,” the police statement said.
The attack comes just months after two people were killed in a synagogue attack in Manchester during Yom Kippur in October, the holiest day of the Jewish calendar.
The UK Jewish Leadership Council (JLC) has urged the government and police to ensure the safety of Hanukkah events, which start tonight and last for eight days. “We must not allow hate to extinguish the Festival of Lights,” the JLC statement said.
Meanwhile, London Mayor Sadiq Khan announced increased police visibility in Jewish communities, while authorities in Scotland have launched additional patrols near synagogues and Jewish facilities.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has called on any British citizen affected by the Sydney attack to contact the British consulate in Sydney for support.
