Sydney beach attack prompts beefed-up security at Hanukkah events in US
U.S. law enforcement agencies have increased security at Hanukkah events across major American cities following the deadly mass shooting at a Jewish celebration at Bondi Beach
NEW YORK, United States (MNTV) – U.S. law enforcement agencies have increased security at Hanukkah events across major American cities following the deadly mass shooting at a Jewish celebration at Bondi Beach, Australia, which left at least 16 people dead, including one of the assailants, and 42 hospitalized.
Australian authorities said the attack was carried out by two gunmen and was “designed to target Sydney’s Jewish community on the first day of Hanukkah,” according to New South Wales Premier Chris Minns, who labeled the shooting a “terrorism event.”
In response, police departments in New York City, Suffolk County, Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, and Washington, D.C., deployed additional officers to synagogues, schools, and Hanukkah-related gatherings, although officials confirmed there were no credible local threats.
“This was a deliberate act of violence against Jews celebrating their faith,” New York Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said. “This is not an isolated incident. It is part of a wider assault on Jewish life.”
Outgoing New York Mayor Eric Adams echoed the concern, stating, “This was just not a random act of violence. It was antisemitic and targeted Jewish people.”
The New York Police Department increased uniformed personnel, heavy weapons teams, and specialized patrols. Suffolk County authorities said they were monitoring developments and coordinating with Jewish community leaders.
In California, the Los Angeles Police Department said it would provide extra patrols at Jewish facilities, schools, synagogues, and Hanukkah events, while the Beverly Hills Police Department increased surveillance and patrols. Washington, D.C., police deployed additional resources to synagogues “out of an abundance of caution.”
Earlier reports indicated that the gunmen were a father and son.
The father was killed at the scene, and the son remains in critical but stable condition in the hospital. Authorities confirmed they are not searching for additional suspects.
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