Statement from the Mayor of London following terrorist attack in Bondi Beach
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan said: "The terrorist attack in Bondi Beach this weekend was an appalling act of antisemitic hatred. Once again, we have seen Jewish people targeted for no other reason than their faith. Today, I join millions of Londoners in mourning the innocent lives cruelly stolen, and in unequivocally condemning the heinous cowardice of the perpetrators.
“I know that for many in London’s Jewish communities, this weekend’s events will be deeply distressing. To hear in particular of the death of London-born Rabbi Eli, a father of five, was heartbreaking.
“As Jewish Londoners come together to celebrate Chanukah, I want to reassure them that we will do everything in our power to keep them safe. I have been in regular contact with the Metropolitan Police over the weekend. The police have already stepped up their presence at Chanukah events across London, and they will operate with increased visibility in Jewish communities throughout this week.
“At its heart, the Chanukah story is one of hope and resilience. Faced with tyranny and repression, the Maccabees defended their right to practice their faith. With light, they overcame darkness. Time and again throughout history, Jewish people have been forced to relive that story, fighting for their freedoms against prejudice and persecution. Today, it is abundantly clear that this fight is far from over.
“I’m proud that London is once again hosting a large Menorah in the centre of London during Chanukah. Faced with darkness, I urge all Londoners to stand with our Jewish brothers and sisters. We must all show allyship with our Jewish neighbours. Now more than ever, we must unite to rid our society of the evil of antisemitism, and defeat this vile form of hatred wherever it rears its ugly head.
“London must always be a place where people of all faiths and backgrounds can live side by side in safety and harmony - a city where we see our differences not as a weakness to be tolerated, but as a strength to be celebrated.
“Together, we must build a future defined not by fear, division and violence, but by hope, unity and peace."