Fury as Keir Starmer posts ‘Chanukah celebration’ in wake of attack | UK | News

A social media post celebrating the Jewish holiday has sparked fierce reactions online following a terror attack in Sydney that left at least 12 people dead. Sir Keir Starmer’s official X account posted a message to mark the start of Hanukkah, the Jewish festival of lights, and sent “warmest wishes to families in the UK and around the world.”

“May the Festival of Lights bring hope, peace and comfort,” he added, before ending his speech with “Hanukah Sameach,” the traditional Jewish greeting. However, this post of the Prime Minister came after gunmen opened fire at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, where the Hanukkah event took place, at around 18.45 local time.

While 2 people were detained regarding the incident, 29 people were hospitalized. It is said that one of the 12 people killed was armed.

According to ABC News, Jewish Hanukkah celebrations were reportedly underway in the area where the attack took place, and police confirmed it was a targeted attack.

But the timing of Sir Keir’s post sparked a fierce backlash online, with one person noting: “Oh Keir – Your timing… I know it’s coincidental etc. But for now – put this away.”

Another added: “Keir, for the love of all that is holy, check the news and don’t plan your posts in advance.”

Another person used preferred language to respond: “I understand this was a timely tweet but damn, this couldn’t have been posted at a worse time.”

The Prime Minister added another post to his X account this morning (Sunday). It reads: “Deeply saddening news from Australia. The UK sends our thoughts and condolences to everyone affected by the horrific attack on Bondi beach.

“I am kept informed of the developing situation.”

Home Affairs Minister Shabana Mahmood said she would meet with her Australian counterpart later on Sunday about the incident at Bondi Beach.

He told the BBC’s Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg programme: “I came into the studio this morning and saw the breaking news.

“I can fully understand the concern this may cause for people living here regarding relatives in Australia, but above all our thoughts must be with the victims of this attack in Australia and the Australian people.

“We will of course be watching closely as details emerge about exactly what happened and I will speak to my Australian counterpart later today.”

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said: “The scenes at Bondi are shocking and distressing.

“Police and emergency responders are on the ground working to save lives. My thoughts are with everyone affected.

“I just spoke to the AFP commissioner and the Premier of NSW.

“We are working with NSW Police and will provide further updates as more information is confirmed.

“I urge people in the area to follow information from NSW Police.”