A suspected terrorist attack at a Hanukkah event on Sydney’s Bondi Beach left at least 11 people dead on Sunday evening, according to authorities.
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns said police have formally designated the incident a terrorism attack, noting that it deliberately targeted Sydney’s Jewish community on the first day of the Jewish festival.
“This attack was designed to target Sydney’s Jewish community on the first day of Hanukkah,” Minns said at the start of a press conference on Sunday.
New South Wales Police reported that 29 other people were injured in the shooting, including two police officers. Authorities confirmed that one suspect was shot dead at the scene, while a second alleged gunman was taken into custody in critical condition.
Police said the shooting occurred along the popular waterfront on Sunday evening, triggering panic as hundreds of beachgoers fled the area. A video recorded at 6:42 p.m. and verified by ABC News showed people running from the northern end of the beach. Officers said the first report of shots fired was received at approximately 6:45 p.m. local time.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the attack, describing it as an “act of evil antisemitism.”
“The scenes in Bondi are shocking and distressing,” Albanese said in a statement. “Police and emergency responders are on the ground working to save lives. My thoughts are with every person affected.”
In the immediate aftermath of the shooting, police urged members of the public to avoid the area and seek shelter. In a later update, authorities said the operation remained ongoing and reiterated warnings for people to stay away from Bondi Beach.
“Two people are in police custody at Bondi Beach; however, the police operation is ongoing and we continue to urge people to avoid the area,” police said. “Please obey ALL police directions. Do not cross police lines.”
Images from the scene showed a heavy police and emergency presence, with several victims being taken away on stretchers as paramedics worked under tight security.
The Australian Jewish Association confirmed that the shooting took place during an event organised to mark the start of Hanukkah celebrations.
“Please pray for the Australian Jewish community,” the group said in a statement.
Australia’s opposition leader, Sussan Ley, also condemned the attack, describing it as an act of hateful violence directed at both a national landmark and the people gathered there.
“This attack occurred as our Jewish community came together at the Chanukah by the Sea celebration,” Ley said. “This was a celebration of peace and hope for the future, severed by hate.”
Israeli President Isaac Herzog joined international voices condemning the attack, calling it a terrorist assault on Jews.
“At these very moments, our sisters and brothers in Sydney, Australia, have been attacked by vile terrorists in a very cruel attack on Jews who went to light the first candle of Chanukah on Bondi Beach,” Herzog said.
Albanese said he remained in close contact with New South Wales authorities as investigations continued.
“We are working with the NSW Police and will provide further updates as more information is confirmed,” he said. “I urge people in the vicinity to follow information from the NSW Police.”
