Met Police Boosts Patrols at UK Synagogues as Bondi Beach Attack Puts British Jews on High Alert

British Jewish communities are bracing for a tense week as police increase patrols at synagogues and Hanukkah events across the country, following the deadly Bondi Beach terror attack in Australia. The decision comes amid growing concern that the violence in Sydney, which left at least 15 people dead, could inspire copycat threats overseas and deepen fears already felt by Jews in the UK.

Police Step Up Security Ahead of Hanukkah Events

The Metropolitan Police have confirmed they will increase their presence around synagogues and Jewish community venues in London throughout Hanukkah, which begins on Sunday evening. Extra patrols will also be deployed at public celebrations and high profile gatherings linked to the festival of lights.

Hertfordshire Constabulary said it would also provide a visible police presence at key events in the county, reflecting a broader national effort to reassure communities. Officers across Britain are being urged to maintain vigilance as thousands prepare to attend menorah-lighting and family celebrations over the next eight days.

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said the Met was taking the situation seriously and adjusting security arrangements in response to the attack in Sydney, which authorities there have formally declared a terrorist incident.

Jewish Groups Hold Emergency Talks

The Community Security Trust has moved quickly, holding meetings to discuss increasing security and policing at Chanukah related events across the UK. In a statement, CST said it would work closely with police, government and community partners to protect Jewish life in Britain.

The organisation condemned the Bondi Beach shooting as appalling and said it was abhorrent that violence appeared to have targeted a moment of communal joy. CST said its thoughts were with the victims, their families and the Australian Jewish community.

The Jewish Leadership Council echoed those concerns, urging the government and law enforcement agencies to ensure that events in the coming days can go ahead safely. The group said it was devastated and angered that Jews in Sydney appeared to have been targeted simply for being Jewish, warning that similar hatred exists in the UK.

The JLC's comments come as it prepares to host a public menorah lighting ceremony in Trafalgar Square, one of the most visible Jewish events in the country.

Political Leaders Respond With Condemnation

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said he was being kept updated on developments in Australia and described the news from Bondi Beach as deeply distressing. He said the UK sends its thoughts and condolences to everyone affected by the attack.

Internationally, the shooting has drawn strong condemnation, with Australian leaders describing it as a horrifying and evil assault aimed at the Jewish community. New South Wales Premier Chris Minns said the attack was designed to target Jewish Australians, while police confirmed that one of the gunmen was already known to the country's intelligence services.

British security officials say there is currently no specific threat to the UK, but acknowledge that high profile antisemitic attacks abroad often raise anxiety at home, particularly during religious festivals.

What Happened in Sydney and Why It Matters Here

The Bondi Beach attack unfolded during a Hanukkah celebration attended by hundreds of people. Gunmen opened fire, killing at least 15 and injuring 27 others, including a child and two police officers. One attacker was killed at the scene, while another remains in a serious condition in hospital.

New South Wales Police later confirmed that improvised explosive devices were found in a vehicle linked to one of the suspects, prompting bomb disposal teams to secure the area. Witnesses described scenes of chaos as emergency services rushed in, with helicopters and ambulances transporting the wounded to hospital.