Bondi Beach Hanukkah Shooting 11 Dead in Targeted Terror Attack
- At least 11 people were killed and 29 injured in a shooting at a Hanukkah celebration on Bondi Beach, which police have declared a terrorist incident targeting the Jewish community.
- One gunman is dead, another is in critical condition, and police found an improvised explosive device in a vehicle linked to the attackers while investigating a possible third suspect
- International leaders and Israeli officials have condemned the attack as a horrific act of antisemitism, with Australian Prime Minister Albanese vowing to "eradicate" such hatred.
A devastating terrorist attack targeting Sydney’s Jewish community has claimed at least 11 lives at Bondi Beach, marking one of Australia’s deadliest mass shootings in decades. The violence erupted on Sunday evening as more than 1,000 people gathered to celebrate the first day of Hanukkah at the "Chanukah by the Sea" event. According to witnesses and footage, two gunmen dressed in black opened fire on the crowd from a nearby footbridge, sending terrified families fleeing for safety.
The attack has been officially designated as a terrorist incident by the New South Wales Police. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the "act of evil antisemitism" in a late night address, vowing to eradicate such hatred from the nation. The tragedy has shaken a country where mass shootings are incredibly rare due to strict gun laws enacted after the 1996 Port Arthur massacre.
Police confirmed that one of the gunmen was killed at the scene, reportedly after being tackled by a heroic bystander who disarmed him. A second suspect was apprehended and remains in critical condition in the hospital. Authorities are also investigating the potential involvement of a third perpetrator and have deployed a bomb disposal unit after discovering an improvised explosive device in a vehicle linked to the deceased attacker.
The international community has reacted with shock and solidarity. Israeli leaders, including President Isaac Herzog, expressed horror at the "cruel attack" on families celebrating a holiday of light, while criticizing the Australian government for allegedly ignoring warning signs of rising antisemitism. Leaders from New Zealand, the UK, France, and the EU have also sent condolences, standing united against the violence.
Locally, the Jewish Council of Australia described the community as "horrified and shaken," with many still waiting for news of their loved ones. The New South Wales Jewish Board of Deputies has advised the community to remain in shelter as security operations continue. As the nation mourns, the focus turns to supporting the 29 injured survivors and understanding how such a calculated act of terror could occur in the heart of Sydney