Deadly Mass Shooting at Bondi Beach Hanukkah Event Investigated as Terrorism Targeting Sydney’s Jewish Community
SYDNEY, Australia — A mass shooting at a Hanukkah celebration on Bondi Beach has left at least 12 people dead, including one of the suspected gunmen, and 29 others hospitalized, marking one of the deadliest attacks on Australia’s Jewish community in recent history. The New South Wales Police Force (NSWPF) confirmed that the attack occurred Sunday evening at the annual “Chanukah By The Sea” event, which was set to begin at 5 p.m. with the lighting of the first candle on the Menorah.
Authorities responded to reports of gunfire around 6:45 p.m. and quickly determined the incident was a coordinated assault involving at least two shooters, with investigations ongoing into a possible third assailant. One suspect was killed at the scene, while the second remains in critical condition. Among the injured are two police officers who were on site.
Officials have classified the shooting as an act of terrorism, explicitly designed to target Sydney’s Jewish community. Police also discovered multiple improvised explosive devices in a vehicle near the scene, prompting a bomb disposal unit to secure the area. The attack has sent shockwaves through Australia and beyond, drawing condemnation and calls for action against rising antisemitism.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog addressed the incident during a ceremony in Jerusalem, expressing solidarity with the victims and their families. “Our hearts go out to them. The heart of the entire nation of Israel misses a beat at this very moment,” Herzog said, urging the Australian government to intensify efforts to combat antisemitism.
The attack is the deadliest against Jews in Australia since the October 7, 2023, Hamas terror attacks, underscoring a global increase in antisemitic violence. The NSWPF continues to lead the investigation, coordinating with federal and international agencies to determine the full scope of the threat.
The Australian government has raised the national terror threat level to “probable,” reflecting heightened concerns about similar extremist attacks. Authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
For updates on the investigation and official safety advisories, the New South Wales Government and Australian Federal Police websites provide ongoing information. The incident also highlights the importance of international cooperation in counterterrorism efforts, as emphasized by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Community leaders and organizations such as the Anti-Defamation League have condemned the attack and called for increased support for Jewish communities worldwide. The tragedy at Bondi Beach has reignited urgent discussions on combating hate crimes and protecting minority groups in multicultural societies.
As the investigation continues, emergency services remain on high alert, providing medical care to the injured and support to affected families. The resilience of Sydney’s Jewish community and the broader public’s response will be critical in the days ahead as Australia grapples with the aftermath of this devastating act of violence.
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