TV personality and barrister Rob Rinder has issued a powerful call for support for the Jewish community in the wake of a devastating mass shooting in Sydney, Australia.
A Tragic Attack During Hanukkah
Appearing on BBC's Morning Live on Tuesday, Rinder discussed the horrific incident that occurred on Sunday at Bondi Beach. The attack, carried out by a father and son, targeted a Hanukkah celebration, claiming 15 lives, including a 10-year-old child, and leaving many others injured.
Presenters Helen Skelton and La Voix invited Rinder to share his thoughts as their conversation drew to a close, acknowledging his Jewish heritage. Skelton asked how important it was to celebrate Hanukkah in the shadow of such tragedy.
The Message of Light in Darkness
Rinder expressed gratitude for the question and explained the profound significance of the Festival of Lights. "It's about a moment in history where Jewish people weren't allowed to be themselves," he stated, referencing the ancient story of the Maccabees.
He connected the historical miracle—where a single day's worth of oil lasted for eight—to the present. "Even in the horror of Bondi, Jewish people just out celebrating that expression of positivity and hope, they were murdered at that moment," Rinder said solemnly.
However, he emphasised that the festival symbolises the enduring potential for hope. "Against the backdrop of all of that hate, is a future full of possibility and hope and light."
A Call for Active Allyship
Rinder's message then turned into a direct appeal for action from the public. He stressed that realising this hopeful future requires people to become active allies. "What it requires us to do, though, is to be allies of the Jewish people and all of those around us. Stand up to hate in all of its forms," he urged.
He highlighted the bravery of bystander Ahmed al Ahmed, who confronted an attacker and wrestled his gun away, as a concrete example of this "light" in action.
In his closing remarks, Rinder delivered a clear directive to viewers. "It's your responsibility to help them feel seen, heard and safe," he concluded, calling on people to support their Jewish neighbours and friends during Hanukkah and beyond.
Morning Live is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
