London, 15 December (H.S.): UK Vigils across the United Kingdom on Sunday evening honored the 15 lives lost in the Bondi Beach Hanukkah shooting, as police ramped up patrols at Jewish sites amid the festival's first night.
Crowds gathered outside Australia's High Commission in London, waving British and Israeli flags while displaying signs proclaiming Stop the Hate, in solidarity with the targeted Australian Jewish community. Enhanced security measures by forces in England and Scotland ensured safe proceedings at menorah lightings from Trafalgar Square to north-west London events featuring music and dance.
Rabbi Yisroel Lew of Marylebone urged attendees not to yield to fear, igniting a menorah with the words: How can we bring more light? Chanie Simon, a schoolmate of slain London-born Rabbi Eli Schlanger—a 41-year-old father of five—vowed resilience: We are reeling in pain but carrying on to spread acts of goodness and light, refusing to let terror prevail. Her sentiments echoed those of Joseph Sassoon, who lamented that Jews are still being murdered years after the Holocaust.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Lady Victoria Starmer kindled a menorah at Number 10 Downing Street, with Starmer declaring on social media: Light will always win over darkness, extending prayers to Bondi victims and their families. King Charles expressed being appalled and saddened by the antisemitic terrorist attack, affirming that Hanukkah's light triumphs over evil, while the Prince and Princess of Wales stood with the grieving Jewish community.
Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis called for tenacity in rebuilding, holding Sydney's victims in prayer as candles flickered.The UK's Jewish Leadership Council decried the assault as part of persistent hatred, referencing a recent synagogue attack in Manchester, and pressed authorities to safeguard the eight-day festival.
Mayor Sadiq Khan confirmed heightened Metropolitan Police presence, noting no direct London threat link, as Police Scotland engaged faith leaders proactively. Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper offered consular aid to affected Britons, underscoring a national resolve to combat antisemitism and terrorism through unified vigilance.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
