On Sunday, a terrorist attack during a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach in Sydney resulted in the deaths of at least 11 people, including a 12-year-old girl and a rabbi. Around 1,000 attendees were enjoying the festivities when two gunmen opened fire at approximately 6:47 p.m. local time, causing chaos as families fled the scene.
One attacker was killed, while the other was apprehended with injuries; a third suspect may also be involved. This incident marks Australia’s deadliest mass shooting in nearly 30 years. A total of 29 people were injured and transported to various hospitals.
Witnesses reported hearing gunfire, initially mistaking it for fireworks. A man who tackled one of the gunmen has been praised for his bravery by authorities. Police discovered a vehicle parked nearby containing suspected improvised explosive devices, which were safely removed.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the attack as an “evil act of anti-Semitism,” highlighting the rise in anti-Semitic incidents in the country since the war between Israel and Hamas began. Israeli leaders also expressed concern over the increase in anti-Semitism in Australia, attributing it to the government’s inadequate response to community safety warnings.
International leaders expressed condolences, while Jewish organizations in Australia voiced their fears about the future of the Jewish community amid rising violence.
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