Following the horrific mass shooting at a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, King Charles released an urgent statement on behalf of himself and Queen Camilla.
“My wife and I are appalled and saddened by the most dreadful antisemitic terrorist attack on Jewish people attending the Chanukah celebration at Bondi Beach,” he wrote.
“Our hearts go out to everyone who has been affected so dreadfully, including the police officers who were injured while protecting members of their community.”
He also commended “the police, emergency services and members of the public whose heroic actions no doubt prevented even greater horror and tragedy.”
“In times of hurt, Australians always rally together in unity and resolve,” he concluded. “I know that the spirit of community and love that shines so brightly in Australia – and the light at the heart of the Chanukah festival – will always triumph over the darkness of such evil.”
As of Sunday night, 15 people are dead following attack. Per the New York Times, upwards of 36 people remain hospitalized and victims range “in age from 10 to 87, and many of those being treated were in critical condition.” The publication reports that authorities are describing the event as an act of terrorism targeting the Jewish community.
The Prince and Princess of Wales also shared their sympathies on social media, releasing a statement via Instagram stories, which read:
“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. We are also thinking about the bravery of the emergency responders, particularly the two injured officers.” It was signed “W&C” for William and Catherine.
In addition to being the head of state of the United Kingdom, King Charles is the head of state of 14 other Commonwealth Realms, including Australia.
Caroline Hallemann is the Digital Director at Town & Country, where she covers culture, society, and entertainment, as well as the British royal family, among a variety of other topics. Caroline is also the author of the forthcoming book, The Kennedys and the Windsors, out in 2026. Prior to leading the digital team at T&C, she served as the brand’s Senior News Editor and Digital News Director, and has previously held positions at Travel + Leisure, DailyCandy, and Parenting Magazine. She lives in Nashville, Tennessee with her husband and their son, Tommy. You can find her on Instagram at the handle @challemann and on TikTok at @carolinehallemann.
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