Bondi Beach Shooting in Sydney: Terror Attack at Hanukkah Event Leaves Dozens Dead and Injured

Sydney — A deadly mass shooting at Bondi Beach in Australia has been declared a terrorist attack targeting the Jewish community, leaving 16 people dead, including one of the gunmen, and more than 40 injured. The attack occurred on the evening of December 14, 2025, during a large Hanukkah celebration near Archer Park on Bondi Beach, a beloved tourist and local gathering spot.

Authorities say two men armed with rifles opened fire at crowds attending the festive “Chanukah by the Sea” event. The gunmen, later identified as a father and son, are believed to have acted with an antisemitic motive. One shooter was killed by police, and the other was critically injured and taken into custody.

Police engaged both attackers after multiple shots rang out around 6:47 p.m. local time. Amid the chaos, a courageous bystander intervened and disarmed one of the gunmen, helping to prevent further bloodshed before being wounded themselves.

Casualties and Response

Victims ranged in age from children to the elderly. Hospitals across Sydney are treating dozens of wounded, including at least two injured police officers who were responding to the incident. Flags across New South Wales have been lowered to half‑mast as officials describe the scene as one of the darkest in Australia’s recent history.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the attack as an act of pure evil and terrorism, emphasizing that the assault on Jewish Australians was an assault on all Australians. He announced that authorities would use all available resources to protect communities and pursue justice.

Investigation and Broader Impact

Security teams have declared Bondi Beach a crime scene while continuing forensic work and evidence gathering. Police also discovered improvised explosive devices in a vehicle connected to the suspects, which were safely removed by bomb‑disposal units.

The tragedy has reignited debate over gun laws in Australia and sparked national and international condemnation. Leaders from around the world have expressed solidarity with the victims and reaffirmed support for Australia’s Jewish community.