Delhi on high alert after Australia attack, security tightened at Jewish establishments

Delhi Police

Following the deadly shooting at Sydney’s Bondi Beach in Australia, which claimed at least 11 lives and injured several others during a Hanukkah celebration, Delhi Police have sounded a high alert in the national capital.

Security arrangements have been strengthened at tourist spots, guest houses, hotels, and eating outlets, particularly those frequented by the Jewish community, senior police officers said.

The officers added that no specific intelligence has been received suggesting a similar attack in Delhi. However, as a precaution, security has been heightened around the Israel embassy, with additional personnel deployed on surrounding roads.

In South Delhi’s Vasant Vihar, the Chabad House restaurant, popular among local Jewish families, Israeli expats, and business travelers, has also seen increased security presence.

“We have increased our vigil across the city, focusing on establishments, markets, and crowded places visited by the Jewish community. Tourists in the city or arriving in Delhi are being sensitized about security arrangements and the Dos and Don’ts they should follow,” a senior police officer was quoted by Hindustan Times as saying.

The Sydney attack involved two gunmen targeting a Hanukkah celebration. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the incident as an act of antisemitic terrorism. Among the injured were two police officers.

A high-level alert regarding possible attacks on Jewish festivals has been issued in India recently. Intelligence suggested that terrorist groups could target Jewish establishments in Delhi, Bengaluru, and Mumbai during the Hanukkah festival. The eight-day long Jewish festival started on Sunday.