King Charles appalled by Bondi Beach terror attack
King Charles and Queen Camilla express horror at antisemitic massacre
King Charles and Queen Camilla have said they are “appalled and saddened” by the antisemitic terror attack on Bondi Beach, offering their condolences to the victims and their families.
In a message to the people of Australia, the King and Queen said they were “appalled and saddened by the most dreadful antisemitic terrorist attack on Jewish people attending the Chanukah celebration on Bondi Beach”, adding that their hearts go out to “everyone who has been affected so dreadfully”.
They also paid tribute to the police, emergency services and members of the public whose heroic actions, they said, no doubt prevented “even greater horror and tragedy”.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer also issued a stronger message than had earlier been posted on his social media platforms in response to the massacre, and was photographed alongside wife Victoria lighting the Chanukah candles inside Downing Street.
“Chanukah should be a time of celebration and joy,” posted Starmer on X. “The news that the Bondi beach attack was an antisemitic terrorist attack against Jewish families at a Chanukah event is sickening. “My thoughts are with the victims and their families.”
The PM also spoke with the Community Security Trust, and with Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis on Sunday to offer his solidarity and pledged to increase security around communal events in the UK.
Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey joined Tory leader Kemi Badenoch and other political figures in expressing his outrage on the Sydney terror attack.
Davey wrote:”Horrified by the sickening terrorist attack in Bondi Beach. My prayers are with the families of those tragically killed.
“As Jewish communities come together to celebrate Hanukkah, we must stand together against violence and hate. Light will always triumph over darkness.
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage later called for the government to ban the Muslim Brotherhood group.
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