Bondi Beach Terrorist Shooting Targeting Hanukkah Celebration in Sydney
The incident resulted in at least 16 fatalities and at least 40 injuries, including two officers.
AUSTRALIA — Authorities in Australia have confirmed a terrorist attack at Bondi Beach in Sydney on December 14, during a Hanukkah celebration organized by Chabad. The incident resulted in at least 16 fatalities and at least 40 injuries, including two officers.
One perpetrator was fatally shot by police, and another was apprehended in critical condition. A bystander disarmed one gunman, potentially preventing further casualties. The attack has been designated as targeting the Jewish community, occurring amid a documented surge in antisemitic activities across the nation.
The perpetrators initiated gunfire lasting approximately 10 minutes, leading to chaos as participants sought safety. Emergency response teams arrived promptly, providing on-site treatment and transporting the wounded to medical facilities.
Two law enforcement officers were among the injured. Investigations continue, with the area secured and public advisories issued to avoid the vicinity. Community representatives have voiced profound dismay and advocated for unity in the face of such violence.
Authorities have not publicly identified the shooters. A raid was conducted on one suspect’s residence following the event. The bystander who disarmed a gunman has been commended by officials and eyewitnesses. Video recordings captured the intervention, depicting the civilian removing the weapon from the attacker.
The deceased include Rabbi Eli Schlanger, a British-born assistant rabbi at Chabad of Bondi and father of five. The gathering marked the commencement of Hanukkah, intended as a communal festivity.
This incident represents one of Australia’s most severe mass shootings since the 1996 Port Arthur event, which prompted significant firearm regulations.
The assault aligns with a pattern of escalating antisemitic violence, with reports indicating a substantial increase in such occurrences.
Recent data from the Executive Council of Australian Jewry notes 1,654 antisemitic acts in 2025, a decrease of 19 percent from 2024 but remaining elevated compared to pre-October 2023 levels.
Prior incidents have involved arson and vandalism against synagogues and Jewish establishments. Security protocols have been intensified at Jewish sites nationwide following the attack.
International diplomatic reactions have included expressions of condolence and solidarity. The event also occurs in the context of strained Australia-Iran relations, following the expulsion of Iranian diplomats in August due to alleged orchestration of antisemitic arson attacks.
As of December 14, the operation remains ongoing. A Public Information and Inquiry Center has been opened, operating 24/7. Specialist officers are examining suspicious items recovered from the scene. An exclusion zone is in place around the area.
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