Tragedy unfolded on the evening of December 14, when a violent attack disrupted Hanukkah celebrations at Sydney’s Bondi Beach. The death toll has been confirmed at least as high as 12, including one of the shooters, while others have been admitted to the hospital.
The incident sent shockwaves across Australia and within the global Jewish community, putting into perspective increasing concerns of antisemitism and the security of communal assembly.
What is the Attack Unfolds
The shooting happened at about 6:40 pm near Campbell Parade, where crowds had congregated for the Chanukah by the Sea event. Witnesses described seeing two men in black firing rifles from a pedestrian bridge leading to the Bondi Pavilion.
Panic erupted as police cars rapidly descended on the scene. Confirmation has come from NSW Police that improvised explosive devices had been located inside a vehicle associated with one of the now-dead attackers, necessitating specialist bomb disposal teams.
Impact on Victims & the Community
Among the victims was Rabbi Eli Schlanger, an assistant rabbi at Chabad of Bondi, remembered as a devoted husband, father and community leader. The attack had been explicitly targeted against people celebrating faith and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned it as a “terrorist act of antisemitism.”
ASIO confirmed that Australia’s national terrorism threat level remains at probable, reflecting ongoing security concerns.
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Shooter Identification & Arrests
Police afterwards arrested a man and a woman from an address in Bonnyrigg. The address was associated with the Bondi attack, according to authorities. One of the shooters died at the scene, while another is currently in the hospital in critical condition.
In addition, sources said the name of one alleged attacker was 24-year-old Naveed Akram of western Sydney, but police haven’t confirmed how many people were allegedly involved or released all of the names.
National & International Reactions
Leaders across Australia and overseas have condemned the attack. NSW Premier Chris Minns and Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon emphasized that it was a terrorist attack against people of a certain religion.
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The FBI, along with other international agencies, also extended support in the wake of the heinous act, showing how antisemitic acts raise serious global concern and call for vigilance against extremism.
I have been in touch with our counterparts in Australia regarding the horrific attack on a Hanukkah festival in Sydney – we are providing the requested assistance and will update with more information as we are able. Please keep the victims and their families in your prayers.
— FBI Director Kash Patel (@FBIDirectorKash) December 14, 2025
Heroism Among Chaos
Amid the gunfire, one civilian hero, Ahmed Al Ahmed, confronted a shooter. This 43-year-old fruit shop owner, who had no experience with guns, took two shots in his arm but assisted in preventing further carnage. His bravery was recognized and hailed by many, underlining courage in the face of terror.
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Disclaimer: This article summarizes verified reports on the Bondi Beach shooting; details may change as authorities release further updates.
