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Sydney: A major terrorist attack occurred on Sunday at the famous Bondi Beach in Sydney, ( Sydney ) Australia. Two gunmen suddenly opened fire on Jews gathered to celebrate the Hanukkah festival. This caused panic at the scene. Eyewitnesses heard hysterical screams, and people were seen running in all directions. So far, 11 people have died in the attack, while 29 have been injured. Videos show some people being given CPR by others in an attempt to save their lives. A stampede and screams erupted at the scene.
One Attacker Killed
According to officials, one of the attackers who caused panic with the shooting in Sydney has been killed, while the other is injured and has been arrested. The attack is suspected to be a terrorist attack. However, it has not yet been officially declared a terrorist attack. The name of the killed attacker is being reported as Naveed Akram.
Chaos at the Scene
Following the shooting incident, there was chaos at the scene. People were seen running quickly towards safe places and taking cover. In several other videos, security forces are seen taking control of the situation. After the shooting, an atmosphere of screaming and panic was observed at the scene.
People Gathered to Celebrate the Jewish Hanukkah Festival
New South Wales Police said that an “incident” was underway at Bondi Beach and appealed to people to stay away from the area and take shelter with anyone present at the scene. Police later confirmed that two individuals had been taken into custody, but the operation was still ongoing. According to eyewitnesses and videos circulating on social media, two gunmen in black clothing were seen on a bridge and fired several rounds. At least a dozen to 50 gunshots were heard. People were seen fleeing the scene, and police sirens blared. Some reports indicated that the attack occurred during a Hanukkah (Jewish festival) celebration, where a “Chanukah by the Sea” event organized by Chabad of Bondi was taking place.
PM Albanese gives strict instructions to the police
The ambulance service reported that at least 10 people were injured. Several media reports claim that 10 people have died, although this has not yet been officially confirmed. Police have warned against spreading rumors and said that no incidents have occurred elsewhere.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese issued a statement saying, “The scenes at Bondi are shocking and heartbreaking. Police and emergency services are on the scene working to save lives. This incident is rare for Australia, where gun control laws are strict. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are urging people to stay away from the area. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families. This is a tragic day.” New South Wales Premier Chris Minns described it as a “deeply disturbing” incident.
Israel’s reaction to the attack
Israel’s first reaction to the attack on Jews in Sydney has come. Gideon Sa’ar of the Israeli Foreign Ministry wrote on X, “I am shocked by the deadly shooting attack during the Hanukkah celebration in Sydney, Australia. These are the results of the antisemitic acts of violence that have spread on the streets of Australia in the last two years, including antisemitic and inflammatory slogans such as ‘Globalize the Intifada’ today. The Australian government, which received countless warnings, must now wake up!”
