Bondi Beach witnessed a tragic attack on Sunday as two gunmen opened fire during a Hanukkah celebration, killing at least 11 people and leaving dozens injured. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the incident as an act of antisemitic terrorism that struck at the heart of the nation.
The shooting took place at the Chanukah by the Sea event, held to mark the start of the eight-day festival, at one of Sydney’s most iconic beaches. Although Australia has seen a rise in antisemitic incidents over the past year, authorities said there is no confirmed link between those events and Sunday’s attack.
Police reported that one gunman was shot dead at the scene, while the second was arrested and remains in critical condition. Officials noted that one of the assailants was known to security services, though no specific threat had been identified. At least 29 people were wounded, including two police officers, according to New South Wales Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon.
Investigators are also examining suspicious items, including improvised explosive devices discovered in one of the suspects’ vehicles. “This attack was designed to target Sydney’s Jewish community,” said New South Wales Premier Chris Minns.
The violence unfolded late in the afternoon as thousands of beachgoers enjoyed the summer weather. Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as people fled from the water while gunfire rang out. Footage showed two men in black firing rifles from a footbridge above the event. In a dramatic turn, a bystander tackled and disarmed one of the gunmen, placing the weapon on the ground; Minns called him a “genuine hero.”
Among the victims was Rabbi Eli Schlanger, assistant rabbi at Chabad of Bondi and a key organizer of the celebration, confirmed by the Orthodox Jewish movement. Israel’s Foreign Ministry also confirmed the death of an Israeli citizen.
The attack, the deadliest in Australia in nearly three decades, has left the nation in shock as authorities continue their investigation into the motive and circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
