Irish Police Boost Security at Jewish Events After Bondi ✡️

Irish police are increasing their presence at Jewish centers and events following a mass shooting at a Hanukkah celebration in Sydney, Australia, on Sunday that left at least 16 people dead, including a 10-year-old girl. One of the alleged gunmen was among those killed.

Sydney Shooting Declared Terrorist Incident

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the shooting as “an act of evil anti-Semitism” and has been declared a terrorist incident. More than 1,000 people had gathered at Bondi Beach to celebrate the first day of the Jewish festival when two individuals began firing into the crowd shortly after 6:45 p.m. local time, according to police.

As of Sunday evening, at least 40 additional people, including two police officers and three children, were hospitalized across Sydney with injuries. New South Wales health minister Ryan Park said the gunshot injuries suffered were “extensive” and “catastrophic,” with some patients in critical condition.

Increased Garda Patrols in Ireland

Following the attack, An Garda Síochána announced “increased Garda patrols” at centers and events associated with the Irish Jewish community. Liaison inspectors have been appointed to ensure ongoing engagement with the Jewish community “to provide them with reassurance and support.”

Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly met with the Chief Rabbi of Ireland, Yoni Wieder, on Sunday to discuss the security measures. Similar increases in security are being planned around Hanukkah events in major cities including Berlin, London and New York.

Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan stated he spoke with the Garda Commissioner on Sunday evening “about ensuring there is adequate protection for the Jewish community in Ireland.” He added that the commissioner had previously assured him and the Chief Rabbi of his commitment to the community’s safety.

Maurice Cohen, chair of the Jewish Representative Council of Ireland, noted that major international attacks “are almost always unforewarned.” He reiterated calls for the government to define a clear national strategy for combating anti-Semitism and fostering Jewish life, including increased security for Jewish places of worship, schools, and gatherings. “No community should have to live in fear that ordinary places of life and leisure can become scenes of terror,” he said.

Minister for Foreign Affairs Helen McEntee said her department was “not aware” of any Irish citizens directly affected by the “appalling anti-Semitic attack.” Taoiseach Micheál Martin described the incident as an “evil act” and a “further manifestation of the murderous hate spawned by anti-Semitism.”

Witnesses described scenes of panic, with video footage showing people fleeing the beach. One eyewitness reported “lots of bodies on the floor” and described the event as being attended by “grandparents and grandchildren.”

Police said a man believed to be one of the gunmen is in police custody in “critical condition,” while another alleged gunman died. A bomb-disposal unit also responded after “improvised explosive devices” were found in a car linked to one of the gunmen.

Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu claimed the Australian government “did nothing to stop the spread of anti-Semitism,” stating, “You let the disease spread, and the result is the horrific attack on Jews we saw today.”