SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – Two gunmen opened fire on Sunday during a Jewish holiday event at Bondi Beach in Sydney, killing at least 11 people and injuring 29 others, including two police officers. Authorities described the attack as a terrorist act. Police shot one suspect dead, while the other was taken into custody in critical condition.
The attack occurred during the Chanukah by the Sea celebration, marking the start of Hanukkah. Hundreds were gathered at the event when the gunmen struck. Among the dead was Rabbi Eli Schlanger, assistant rabbi at Chabad of Bondi, who had served the local Jewish community for over 18 years. Dramatic footage showed a bystander tackling and disarming one of the attackers before police arrived. Authorities are still investigating the scene and examining suspicious items, including an improvised explosive device found in a suspect’s car.
Witnesses described chaotic scenes as shots rang out. Many people ran, hid, or dropped belongings in panic. Local residents reported hearing dozens of gunshots over several minutes. Police and emergency teams quickly responded, and some students and attendees were sheltered in place for hours.
Australian leaders condemned the attack. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called it a targeted, antisemitic act of terrorism and vowed that authorities would pursue all involved. Israel’s President Isaac Herzog also urged action against the surge of antisemitism in Australia.
Antisemitic incidents, including assaults and vandalism, have been increasing in the country, particularly after the 2023 conflict involving Israel. Mass shootings in Australia are extremely rare, with the 1996 Port Arthur massacre prompting the nation to implement some of the world’s strictest gun laws. Prior incidents have involved small-scale attacks or family-related murders, making Sunday’s attack on Bondi Beach a highly unusual and devastating event.
