Amanze Chinonye
Britain’s main political leaders have united in condemning what they described as “poisonous antisemitism” following the deadly terror attack at Bondi Beach in Sydney, which left 15 people dead during a Chanukah celebration, Prime Business Africa reports.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch, and Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey all opened their remarks at Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs) with references to the attack, marking the first Commons session since the incident.
Starmer described the shooting as “sickening,” saying it had sent shockwaves far beyond Australia.
Join our WhatsApp Channel“It has had a profound impact around the world, including on Jewish communities here in the United Kingdom,” the Prime Minister said.
“These incidents are not isolated. Chillingly, they are often focused on some of the holiest days in the Jewish calendar.”
He said he reaffirmed the government’s commitment to tackling antisemitism during a Chanukah reception at Downing Street, stressing that hatred against Jewish communities must be confronted decisively.
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Badenoch argued that expressions of sympathy alone were insufficient in the face of violent extremism.
“What happened at Bondi Beach was an atrocity, but words of solidarity are not enough,” she said.
“Islamic extremism is a threat to Western civilisation. It abuses our democracies and subverts our institutions. It is incompatible with British values.”
She added that safeguarding Jewish communities must go beyond enhanced security.
“It is not enough just to protect Jewish communities we must drive Islamic extremism out of this country,” the Conservative leader said.
Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey also condemned antisemitism, describing it as “poisonous” and calling for cross-party cooperation. He referenced calls by the Board of Deputies of British Jews for a comprehensive government strategy to combat antisemitism and asked the Prime Minister to outline concrete steps to ensure the safety of Jewish people in Britain.
Responding, Starmer said the government was matching words with action, announcing that funding for Jewish community security had been increased to £28 million.
“No one should have to pay more or provide extra security just to attend their place of worship or go to school,” he said.
The Prime Minister also disclosed that he had ordered a review of protest and hate crime laws, aimed at preventing demonstrations from becoming platforms for hate and intimidation.
The Bondi Beach attack, which Australian authorities say was designed to target the Jewish community, has heightened global concern over rising antisemitism and extremist violence, triggering renewed calls for coordinated international action.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
