A horrific terror attack at a Jewish Hannukah celebration on Sydney's Bondi Beach has left 15 people dead and 27 injured, casting a shadow over the Festival of Lights and sparking security concerns for Jewish communities worldwide, including in the UK.
Attack Details and Perpetrators
The assault occurred on Sunday, the first night of Hannukah, when two gunmen opened fire on a gathering at the famous Australian beach. The attackers have been identified by local media as 54-year-old Sajid Akram and his 24-year-old son, Naveed Akram. Sajid Akram was shot and killed by police at the scene. His son was disarmed by a member of the public, 43-year-old Ahmed al Ahmed, and taken to hospital with injuries from which he is expected to survive. Naveed Akram is now facing criminal charges.
Scottish and UK Response to the Tragedy
Scottish First Minister John Swinney issued a powerful statement on Monday, condemning the violence. He described the attack as an "unspeakable act of hatred and violence" that had "cruelly marred" the start of Hannukah. Swinney emphasised the Scottish Government's firm stance against antisemitism and confirmed that authorities are working closely with Police Scotland to ensure the safety of Jewish communities.
"I am dedicated to ensuring that our Jewish communities here in Scotland feel safe and supported and able to live free from fear," Swinney stated. He added that the government is in "very close contact" with police to implement appropriate security measures around places of worship.
Community Fear and Calls for Enhanced Security
The attack has sent shockwaves through international Jewish communities. In Scotland, Timothy Lovat, chair of the Jewish Council of Scotland, said the news was a "dreadful reminder of the risks" facing their community. He stressed there must be "no place for anti-Jewish hate – in any guise – anywhere in Scotland."
Mark Gardner, chief executive of the Community Security Trust (CST) which protects British Jews, called for a visible police presence outside synagogues in Scotland in the attack's aftermath. Speaking to BBC Radio Scotland, he noted that the celebration of Hannukah, a time for family and light, had been violently targeted, striking "at the heart of Jewish life."
In response, Police Scotland announced the deployment of additional dedicated patrols around Jewish sites, though they stated there was "no specific threat" to the community at present. The International Council of Police Representative Associations (ICPRA) also released a statement, strongly condemning the violence motivated by antisemitism.
The attack has prompted profound grief and a renewed focus on community safety, with leaders across Scotland and the UK pledging solidarity and support during what should be a joyous religious festival.
