Bondi Beach Attack: Panic broke out at Sydney’s Bondi Beach late Sunday evening when gunmen opened fire during a Hanukkah celebration attended by hundreds of people. The attack took place during a candle-lighting ceremony organised by the Jewish community group Chabad of Bondi. At least 11 people were killed and 29 others injured, including two police officers.
Authorities later declared the incident a terrorist attack, citing the timing, location and nature of the assault.
Suspects And Police Action
New South Wales Police said two attackers were involved in the shooting. One gunman was shot dead at the scene, while the other was arrested and is receiving treatment in hospital in critical condition. Police are also examining whether a third accomplice played a role.
One of the suspects has been identified as 24-year-old Naveed Akram, a resident of Bonnyrigg in Sydney. His image has circulated widely on social media since the incident. Police confirmed they raided Akram’s home on Sunday evening as part of the investigation.
Officials said they currently have limited information about one suspect and urged the public not to speculate or retaliate.
Police Appeal For Calm
NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon addressed the media, asking people to remain calm and allow investigators to do their work. He said police had taken suo motu action based on available evidence and intelligence.
“This is not the time for retaliation,” Lanyon said, adding that the investigation remains active and sensitive.
Details Emerging From The Scene
Police confirmed that long-barrelled firearms were used in the attack, though details about how the weapons were obtained have not been disclosed. Investigators also found an improvised explosive device (IED) inside a vehicle linked to the deceased attacker. Bomb disposal units were deployed to secure the area.
The beach and surrounding streets were cordoned off for hours as forensic teams examined the scene.
Viral Video Shows Chaos During Shooting
A nearly 10-minute video of the shooting has surfaced online, capturing chaotic moments from the attack. The footage shows two armed men opening fire near Campbell Parade and a pedestrian bridge close to the beach as people run for cover. One attacker is seen firing from an elevated position before being tackled and disarmed by a civilian. Other visuals appear to show police engaging the attackers in an extended exchange of gunfire. Police said the footage is being reviewed as part of the investigation.
Attack During Religious Event
The shooting occurred as more than 1,000 people gathered for an event titled “Chanukah by the Sea”, which had been promoted as a family-friendly celebration featuring music, games and community activities.
Police said the assault was designed to target Sydney’s Jewish community, noting the timing on the first day of Hanukkah and the manner of the attack.
Acts Of Bravery Amid Chaos
Amid the chaos, a bystander attempted to wrestle a rifle from one of the attackers, allowing several people to escape. NSW Premier Chris Minns praised the individual’s bravery, calling him a “genuine hero” and crediting his actions with saving lives.
Political Reactions
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the attack, saying Australians stood united against hatred and violence. “We will never submit to division,” he said in a message to the Jewish community.
Premier Minns described the shooting as an “evil attack” that shattered what should have been a night of peace and joy.
The New South Wales Jewish Board of Deputies advised community members to stay indoors and announced the temporary closure of Jewish events and institutions.
Global Condemnation
World leaders reacted. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and leaders from New Zealand, Ireland and the Netherlands condemned the violence and expressed solidarity with Australia’s Jewish community.
Israel’s leadership also responded strongly, urging Australian authorities to take firm action against antisemitism.
The US Secretary of State said Washington strongly condemned the attack and stood with the victims and their families.
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Gun Laws
Australia has some of the world’s strictest gun laws, introduced after the 1996 Port Arthur massacre. Mass shootings are rare. Official data shows 31 firearm-related homicides were recorded nationwide in 2023–24.
Police said the investigation remains ongoing and warned against sharing unverified information online. Authorities stressed that updates will be provided as facts are confirmed.
What Happens Next
Police are continuing to analyse CCTV footage, weapons evidence and witness statements. The suspect in custody remains under guard in hospital. A formal charge sheet is expected once questioning is completed.
Officials said security across Sydney has been heightened, particularly around places of worship, as investigations continue.
(With Input From Agen)