UPDATE: At least 11 people have been killed following a shocking attack by two gunmen during a Hanukkah celebration on Bondi Beach in Sydney on Sunday evening. The incident, which occurred around 6:45 p.m., has been labeled an act of antisemitic terrorism by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who expressed his devastation over the violence that has rocked the nation.
The attack unfolded during the “Chanukah by the Sea” event, attended by hundreds celebrating the start of the eight-day festival. Authorities report that a total of 29 people were injured, including two police officers, and emergency services are now investigating suspicious items linked to the suspects, including improvised explosive devices found in one of their vehicles.
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns confirmed that one of the gunmen was shot dead by police while the other has been arrested and is in critical condition. The police have indicated that one shooter was known to security services, though there was no specific prior threat.
Eyewitness accounts detail a scene of chaos as celebrants fled the beach, with one local describing the panic: “Everyone just dropped all their possessions… and were running.” Video footage captured the harrowing moment, with some brave individuals attempting to tackle the gunmen.
Among the deceased is Rabbi Eli Schlanger, assistant rabbi at Chabad of Bondi, who played a key role in organizing the event. The Israeli Foreign Ministry has also confirmed the death of an Israeli citizen in the attack.
Albanese condemned the assault as a targeted attack on the Jewish community, stating, “This is a day of joy, celebration of faith, now overshadowed by an act of evil.” He vowed to unite Australians against such acts of hatred.
International leaders have responded with outrage. King Charles III expressed his sadness over the incident, while UN Secretary-General António Guterres labeled the attack horrifying. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer also condemned the violence, emphasizing the urgent need to combat antisemitism.
This event marks one of the deadliest mass shootings in Australia’s history, a country known for its strict gun control laws. The last significant mass shooting occurred decades ago, in 1996, prompting major reforms.
As the investigation continues, police urge the public to remain vigilant. The community is in mourning as they grapple with the aftermath of this tragic event, which underscores growing concerns over antisemitism in Australia, where incidents have surged in recent months.
The nation now faces a pivotal moment as it seeks to confront the roots of this violence and ensure the safety of its diverse communities in the wake of this appalling tragedy.
