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The Prince and Princess of Wales have issued an official statement following a mass shooting at Bondi Beach on 14 December. New South Wales Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon confirmed that at least 12 people were killed during the attack, which took place at an event marking the start of Hanukkah. Two police officers were also injured.
Sharing a joint message on Instagram, William and Kate wrote: “Our thoughts are with every Australian today following the terrible attack at Bondi Beach. We extend our deepest condolences to the families and friends of those who have lost their lives and stand with the Jewish community in grief.”
They concluded by adding: “We are also thinking about the bravery of the emergency responders, particularly the two injured officers.”
King Charles and Queen Camilla are “appalled and saddened” by the attack
King Charles also shared a message addressed to the people of Australia, saying: “My wife and I are appalled and deeply saddened by the horrific antisemitic terrorist attack on Jewish people attending the Chanukah celebration at Bondi Beach.”
He continued: “Our hearts go out to all those so terribly affected, including the police officers who were injured while protecting members of their community.”
The King went on to praise those who responded to the tragedy, adding: “We commend the police, emergency services, and members of the public whose courageous actions undoubtedly prevented an even greater loss of life and further devastation.”
The King continued by saying: “In moments of pain, Australians always come together with unity and resolve. I know that the spirit of community and love that shines so brightly across Australia — and the light at the heart of the Chanukah festival — will always overcome the darkness of such evil.”
The Bondi Beach attack
On Sunday, 14 December, authorities confirmed that at least 12 people were killed in a shooting at a Chanukah by the Sea event at Bondi Beach. More than 1,000 people were attending when two men opened fire on the crowd. One of the attackers was killed at the scene, while the second has been taken into custody. Dozens of others were injured, including two police officers who were hospitalized.
Describing the incident as an “act of evil antisemitism,” Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said: “An attack on Jewish Australians is an attack on every Australian, and every Australian tonight will be like me — devastated by this attack on our way of life.”
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What is Hanukkah?
Hanukkah is a Jewish festival observed over eight days, commemorating a victory against the Greeks more than 2,000 years ago. This year, the holiday — also known as the Festival of Lights and spelled Chanukah — is celebrated from 14 to 22 December. The word ‘Hanukkah’ comes from Hebrew and means ‘dedication’. Traditionally, families and friends gather to mark the occasion with prayers, shared meals, gift-giving, and the lighting of the menorah.
The King and Queen of Denmark have sent their “most heartfelt condolences”
In a joint statement shared on Instagram, King Frederik X and Queen Mary of Denmark said: “We, along with the people of Denmark, are deeply saddened by the tragic news of today’s terror attack at Bondi Beach. We offer our sincerest and most heartfelt condolences to all those affected, their loved ones, the people of Australia, and the Jewish community.”
