A mass shooting during a Hanukkah celebration at Sydney’s Bondi Beach on Sunday left at least 12 people dead and several others injured, triggering a major police operation and drawing condemnation from leaders around the world.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the attack as a “devastating terrorist incident.” “This is a targeted attack on Jewish Australians on the first day of Hanukkah…An act of evil, antisemitism, terrorism that has struck the heart of our nation,” he said, as reported by the Indian Express.
According to the New South Wales Police Force, at least 12 people were killed during a shootout at the popular beachside location. Police confirmed that two suspects are known — one has been killed, while the other is in a life-threatening condition in hospital. Officers are also investigating whether a third perpetrator may have been involved in the attack. Twenty-nine people, including two police officers, were taken to hospitals across Sydney.
The shooting occurred as crowds gathered to observe the Jewish festival of Hanukkah. World leaders have since expressed shock and offered condolences to the families of the victims. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the attack in a post on social media platform X, reiterating India’s “zero tolerance towards terrorism” and support for the “fight against all forms and manifestations of terrorism,” the Indian Express has quoted.
US President Donald Trump said people celebrating Hanukkah should not fear for their safety following the attack that targeted the Jewish community. Fox News correspondent Peter Doocy said he had spoken directly with Trump, who told him, “they do not need to be worried. They should celebrate proudly, and they should be proud of who you are, celebrate proudly,” the Indian Express has quoted.
In response to the shooting, authorities in major US cities announced heightened security around Jewish institutions. Miami Beach police said additional resources were being deployed to synagogues, schools and key locations. New York City Mayor Eric Adams said extra security would be provided at Hanukkah celebrations and synagogues.
“Innocent souls were taken by vile antisemitism and hate. May their memories be a blessing,” Adams said. The Los Angeles Police Department also announced increased patrols at Jewish facilities and events, stressing that there were no credible threats but that precautions were being taken, as reported by the Indian Express.
Police have cordoned off areas of Bondi Beach as investigations continue. Officials cautioned that information remains preliminary and may change as inquiries progress.
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