John Swinney sends 'sympathy and solidarity' to victims of Bondi terror attack
The attack killed at least 12 people at a Hanukkah celebration in Sydney, according to New South Wales Police.
Last updated 14th Dec 2025
Scotland's First Minister John Swinney sent his "sympathy and solidarity" to the victims of a terror attack on Bondi Beach in Australia.
At least 12 people have been killed and 29 injured in a terrorist attack targeting a Jewish celebration in Sydney, Australian police have said.
Two individuals armed with guns opened fire on a crowd celebrating Hanukkah in the Archer Park area of Bondi Beach at 6.47pm local time on Sunday, New South Wales Police said.
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns told a press conference: "This attack was designed to target Sydney's Jewish community on the first day of Hanukkah, what should have been a night of peace and joy celebrated in that community with families and supporters, has been shattered by this horrifying evil attack."
In a statement on Twitter/X, Mr Swinney described the attack as "appalling" and said he was "horrified" by it.
He added: "I am horrified by the events at Bondi beach and send my sympathy and solidarity, and that of the people of Scotland, to those affected.
"This is an appalling incident."
In a another post he said: "The events at Bondi beach are an appalling act against the Jewish community at a precious moment in the Jewish calendar.
"Such acts are despicable at any time but ever more so at this moment. I express my sympathy and solidarity to the Jewish community at this time."
Police Scotland have also issued a statement this afternoon.
Assistant Chief Constable Steve Johnson said: “Our thoughts are with the Jewish community, the victims, families, and everyone affected by the incident in Australia.
"Officers are already carrying out additional and dedicated patrols around synagogues and other Jewish venues as part of our existing policing plan for Hanukkah.
“Following the incident, we are actively communicating with faith leaders and community leaders.
"We are also engaging with a wide range of local, national and international partners to ensure our communities are safe.
“While there is no intelligence to suggest any specific threat in Scotland, I want to take this opportunity to ask the public to remain alert but not alarmed. You should remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to Police Scotland.
“Policing in Scotland has strong relationships with the public and we are grateful for the ongoing support of all our communities.”