Reform UK MP warns of ‘frightening rise’ in antisemitism after Bondi Beach terror attack

Her comments come after police say 16 people have been killed and at least 40 others are being treated in hospital after a mass shooting at Bondi Beach in Australia.

The terror attack unfolded on the first day of Hanukkah, with multiple gunmen opening fire on crowds at the popular beachfront location.

The elder of the attackers - a father and son duo - was shot dead by armed police at the scene.

The younger suspect is understood to be in a critical condition in hospital.

NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon said officers are “leaving no stone unturned” as the investigation continues.

He confirmed police are actively examining the possibility that a third gunman may have been involved.

Authorities are also investigating whether any other individuals are linked to the attack.

The commissioner said the inquiry will be conducted "thoroughly" as police work to establish the full circumstances surrounding the shooting.

Mrs Pochin said: "My heartfelt sympathies go out to the Jewish community in Australia, but around the world because they seem to be under such relentless attack at the moment.

"It's building in such a frightening way, isn't it? We're hearing it more and more. This is horrendous. I've never been to Bondi Beach, but I think of it as one of those iconic locations of fun and happiness.

"And I think today, when or yesterday, now, when this happened, it was, you know, a hot summer's day. It was school holidays.

"It was a family event. And again, my understanding of the event was that it's a festival of light, you know, and hope and promise.

"It was a clearly organised terrorist attack. There was more than one individual and involved at least two, if not three."

In response to the attack, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese convened an emergency meeting of the national security committee, branding the violence "beyond comprehension".

He said the assault was a deliberate act against Jewish Australians, carried out on the first day of Hanukkah — a time meant for celebration and faith.

New South Wales Premier Chris Minns echoed those concerns, stating the shooting was clearly aimed at Sydney’s Jewish community.

He confirmed a major counter-terrorism investigation is underway, pointing to the timing of the attack, the weapons used and the discovery of an improvised explosive device inside a vehicle linked to the deceased suspect.

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