Terror Unleashed at Sydney’s Bondi Beach: Indiscriminate Gunfire by Two Armed Attackers During Hanukkah Celebration, 16 Dead, 42 Injured

Sydney’s Bondi Beach, considered one of Australia’s most peaceful coastal areas, was plunged into chaos on Sunday evening when a festive gathering turned into a scene of devastation. Hundreds of people were celebrating the joy and light of the “Chanukah by the Sea” event along the shoreline when laughter and music were suddenly replaced by screams and panic, as two armed attackers opened indiscriminate fire on the crowd.

Attack During Hanukkah Celebration

The incident occurred at approximately 6:45 pm local time, during the Jewish community’s traditional “Chanukah by the Sea” celebration. The event is held every year at Bondi Beach and attracts thousands of people, including families. Children’s face painting, food trucks and live music are regular features of the festival.

In the middle of the program, gunshots rang out without warning. According to eyewitnesses, two masked attackers stepped out of a silver hatchback car and began firing at people gathered near the beach. Within seconds, dozens of people collapsed to the ground. Panic spread rapidly as people ran for their lives toward the shoreline, nearby shops and surrounding buildings.

Police Declare It a Terrorist Incident; 12 to 16 Dead, 42 Injured

New South Wales Police Commissioner Mal Lannan, speaking at a late-night press conference, confirmed that at least 16 people were killed, including Rabbi Eli Schlanger and one of the attackers. 42 people were injured, among them two police officers. The injured have been admitted to various hospitals across the city, with several reported to be in critical condition.

Police have officially declared the shooting a terrorist incident. Authorities believe the attackers deliberately targeted the Jewish community, which was celebrating the first day of Hanukkah.

Swift Police Action

As the evening unfolded, police and security agencies responded immediately. Eyewitnesses reported that one attacker was shot dead at the scene by police, while the second was overpowered by a courageous civilian, who knocked him to the ground and seized his weapon. People present at the scene praised the bravery of the civilian.

Police immediately sealed off the surrounding area and called in the bomb disposal unit. Search operations are ongoing, as suspected explosive devices were found nearby and are currently being examined by specialists. Authorities have also stated that they are searching for a possible third suspect.

Eyewitness Accounts Paint a Grim Picture

Statements from eyewitnesses reveal the sheer brutality of the attack.
Local resident Harry Wilson said, “I saw at least 10 people lying on the ground, covered in blood. There was complete chaos—people were pushing and running in every direction.”
A teenage witness recalled, “The attackers got out of the car and immediately pointed their guns at the crowd. They shouted something and then started firing.”

Several videos and photographs of the attack are now circulating on social media, showing civilians and police officers helping the injured. Alex Rivchin, media director of the organizing body Chabad, was also injured in the attack.

Organizers and Community in Mourning

Among those killed was Rabbi Eli Schlanger, one of the key organizers of Bondi Chabad, who had been serving the local Jewish community for the past 18 years. His death has left the entire community in deep mourning. In a statement, the organizers said:
“This attack is not just on our community, but on humanity itself. We will not be intimidated—light will overcome darkness.”

Jewish organizations in Australia, India, the United States, Israel and the United Kingdom have condemned the attack and expressed condolences to the victims’ families.

Government and Police Response

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the incident as a “shocking and tragic atrocity.” He said, “We will never tolerate this kind of hatred and violence. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families.”

New South Wales Premier Chris Minns stated that this was a direct attack on Sydney’s Jewish community and assured that the state government stands firmly with them.

Meanwhile, the Israeli President and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer also strongly condemned the attack. The United States has offered assistance to Australia in security and investigative efforts.

Possible Motive and Security Under Scrutiny

According to police sources, one of the attackers was previously on the radar of security agencies, though no immediate threat had been identified in recent weeks. Investigators are now examining whether the attack was linked to an organized network or extremist group.

Australia has strict gun control laws, implemented after the 1996 Port Arthur massacre. Despite this, the Bondi Beach attack is being described as the deadliest mass shooting in the country in over two decades. Experts say the incident raises serious questions about security policies and the protection of religious events.

Heightened Security Across Sydney, Investigation Continues

Following the attack, security alerts have been raised across Sydney. A heavy police presence has been deployed outside Jewish schools, religious institutions and community centers throughout the city.
The Australian Federal Police and ASIO (Australian Security Intelligence Organisation) have launched a joint investigation. Specialists are examining the suspected explosive devices, and authorities are conducting a thorough background check on the attackers.

Police have urged the public not to believe rumors and have requested that anyone with video or photographic evidence share it directly with investigative agencies.

Fear in the Jewish Community, But a Message of Unity

While the attack was horrifying and heartbreaking, it has also sparked a wave of solidarity and support across Sydney and Australia.
In the evening, local residents were seen lighting candles and offering prayers for the victims. One female eyewitness said, “This attack was meant to scare us, but we will not let it break our unity.”

Meanwhile, the international Jewish organization World Jewish Congress stated that “such an anti-Jewish attack in a democratic country like Australia is a warning sign for civilization.”

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