Bondi Beach mass shooting kills at least 12 in targeted attack on Jewish community
At least 12 people were killed and dozens injured after a mass shooting at Bondi Beach in Sydney on Sunday evening
SYDNEY, Australia (MNTV) — At least 12 people were killed and dozens injured after a mass shooting at Bondi Beach in Sydney on Sunday evening, in what authorities have declared a “terrorist” incident deliberately targeting Australia’s Jewish community on the first day of Hanukkah.
New South Wales Police said the attack unfolded around 6:47 pm near the Bondi Pavilion, where more than 1,000 people had gathered for “Chanukah by the Sea,” a public event marking the start of the Jewish festival.
A total of 29 people were injured and taken to hospitals across Sydney, including two police officers. Victims’ conditions range from serious to critical.
Police confirmed that one suspected attacker was shot dead at the scene, while a second alleged shooter remains in critical condition.
Investigators are also examining whether a third offender may have been involved.
Authorities said an improvised explosive device was discovered inside a vehicle linked to the deceased suspect, significantly escalating concerns around the scale and intent of the attack.
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns said the shooting was “designed to target Sydney’s Jewish community on the first day of Hanukkah,” while Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the violence as “evil beyond comprehension.”
“This was a targeted attack on Jewish Australians on a day that should be about joy and faith,” Albanese said during a televised address.
“An attack on Jewish Australians is an attack on every Australian.”
New South Wales Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon said the state’s counter-terrorism command is leading the investigation alongside the State Crime Command.
He confirmed the incident has been formally classified as terrorism.
“This wanton use of violence and the taking of innocent lives is unacceptable to New South Wales,” Lanyon told reporters.
He urged the public to remain calm and warned against reprisals.
“This is not our way of life. We will not stand for this type of violence.”
Lanyon said special emergency powers had been authorised to ensure public safety and to prevent any further attacks as the investigation continues.
Muslim community condemns attack
Australia’s Muslim community also condemned the attack.
The Australian National Imams Council described the shooting as a “horrific” act of violence and expressed solidarity with the victims and their families.
“This is a moment for all Australians to stand together in unity, compassion, and solidarity,” the council said.
Security has been heightened across Sydney as authorities continue investigations into what officials say was a deliberate act of anti-Semitic terrorism.
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