A total of 15 people have lost their lives
The Jewish community in Kent is mourning the tragic loss of lives following a shooting in Bondi, Australia. At least 15 people were brutally killed during a Hanukkah celebration on Bondi Beach, located in the suburb of Sydney.
A British-born rabbi and a 10-year-old girl were among those killed. As of late Monday afternoon, 27 people were receiving care in hospitals across Sydney, New South Wales Health said.
The incident has left the Jewish community in Kent in shock at the start of their eight-day “Festival of Lights.” In a statement, Chatham Memorial Synagogue said: “As president of Chatham Memorial Synagogue, I would like to share the love and support of our community for the Jewish community in Australia.
“As we come to terms with the horrific attack on the Chanukah celebration at Bondi Beach, we mourn the loss of those who have died and we pray for a full recovery of body and spirit, for those who were wounded. We appreciate the strong words of support for the Jewish community from the Premier of New South Wales and the Prime Ministers of Australia and the UK.
“Chanukah is a time of light, joy and celebration. As we light our Chanukah candles this evening, we pray that the light of the candles will ensure that the light of our community will always shine brightly.”
Australian police said a father and son – who have yet to be formally identified – were behind the shooting on Sunday (December 14). Father-of-two Ahmed al Ahmed, from Sydney, was hailed a hero for tackling one of the gunmen before wrestling his weapon away from him after video was shared on social media.
Al Ahmed’s family said the 43-year-old fruit shop owner remains in hospital with bullet wounds to his arm and hand, but was in “good spirits” as they hailed him a “hero”. Six people remain in critical conditions with the others in serious and stable conditions, while police believe the ages of the dead range from 10 to 87.
Labour MP for Dover and Deal Mike Tapp said: “It’s absolutely devastating to see Jews attacked, again, this time in Australia. We will not rest until antisemitism is defeated. This is an attack on us all.”
Cllr Vince Maple, the Labour leader of Medway council, said: “This is absolutely shocking news from Bondi Beach with a senseless terror attack on people who had come together to celebrate Hanukkah. We stand in Solidarity with all those impacted by this tragic news.”
Maidstone’s council leader, Stuart Jeffery, added: “My thoughts are with Jewish communities at this time.”
The Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer said on X: “The United Kingdom sends our thoughts and condolences to everyone affected by the appalling attack in Bondi Beach.”
A 50-year-old gunman was shot by police and died at the scene while his 24-year-old son suffered critical injuries and was taken to hospital under police guard.
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