Australian authorities have officially declared the deadly Bondi Beach shooting in Sydney a terrorism incident after gunmen opened fire during a crowded festival. The attack, which took place on the first day of Hanukkah, has shocked the nation and prompted a major law enforcement response.
What Happened at Bondi Beach?
On Sunday evening, crowds gathered at Bondi Beach for a Chanukah by the Sea event when gunfire erupted. Two armed attackers opened fire near the beach, leading to chaos, panic and mass evacuations as people sought cover.
At least 12 people were killed, and dozens more were injured, including first responders. One of the gunmen was shot dead by police, while the other was arrested in critical condition.
Police Declare ‘Terrorism Incident’
New South Wales Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon held a press conference declaring the attack a terrorism incident. Police say the attack appeared to target Sydney’s Jewish community during a religious festival. Commissioner Lanyon said the investigation is now being led by counter-terrorism specialists.
“This attack was designed to target Sydney’s Jewish community on the first day of Hanukkah. This is a terrorism incident.” Police have also found suspicious devices near the scene. Officers are examining several items to determine whether they posed further threats.
Emergency Response and Public Safety
When the shooting began, New South Wales Police first alerted the public via social media and urged anyone near the scene to take shelter immediately. They also set up exclusion zones to keep civilians away from dangerous areas as specialist teams worked the scene.
Emergency services rushed to assist victims, with ambulances and medical teams treating and transporting the wounded to nearby hospitals. Witnesses described chaotic scenes with crowds fleeing and helping others to safety.
Targeting of the Jewish Community
Authorities believe the assault was aimed at the Jewish community celebrating the start of Hanukkah, a major Jewish festival. Officials noted that hundreds of people were present at the event when the shooting began.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese strongly condemned the attack, calling it “shocking and distressing”, and vowed support for the victims and families affected by the violence. He urged the public to follow all directions from law enforcement as the situation unfolded.
Witness Accounts
Witnesses shared harrowing accounts of the attack:
- One local said people dropped everything and sprinted as gunfire rang out.
- Another described seeing multiple victims and hearing screams as bystanders fled to safety.
Investigation Underway
Police are still investigating the full extent of the incident. Officers are searching for any additional suspects and probing whether more attackers were involved. Authorities are also analysing the devices found near the scene to determine their purpose.
Officials have not yet released all details about the arrested suspect or his motives. The investigation remains active, and authorities continue to gather evidence to piece together the full timeline of events.
National and Global Reaction
The attack has drawn widespread condemnation from leaders in Australia and abroad. Many international figures, including European and Jewish community leaders, have expressed sorrow and solidarity with the victims.
Australia has strong gun control laws, making mass shootings rare. The declaration of this event as a terrorist act marks a grim moment in the nation’s security history. The country now faces tough questions about rising extremism and how best to protect vulnerable communities.
What Comes Next?
Authorities urge anyone with information to come forward. Police are expected to release further updates as investigations continue. Public safety advisories remain in place for the area, and officials say investigations will focus on uncovering motives and preventing future threats.
