A deadly shooting occurred on December 14, 2025, at Bondi Beach in Sydney during a Hanukkah celebration, leaving multiple people dead and many injured. Authorities quickly confirmed the incident was a terrorist attack targeting the Jewish community. Hundreds of people had gathered at the beach for the festive event when the attackers opened fire, creating panic and chaos.
Police identified the attackers as Sajid Akram (50) and his son Naveed Akram (24). Sajid was shot dead by police at the scene, while Naveed was critically injured and taken into custody. Investigators discovered two Islamic State (IS) flags in their car, suggesting extremist motives. The attack killed at least 16 people, including one of the attackers, and left dozens injured, including children and police officers. Emergency services immediately rushed victims to hospitals, and authorities launched a large-scale security operation around Bondi Beach.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the attack, calling it “an act of evil and antisemitism” and assuring the Jewish community of full protection. He also convened a national security meeting in response to the violence. Albanese emphasized that Australia would not tolerate hate-driven violence.
The attack drew international attention. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he had previously warned Australia about rising antisemitism and urged the government to take stronger measures to protect Jewish communities. Global leaders, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, condemned the attack, expressed condolences, and offered support to Australia and its Jewish population.
Authorities confirmed that the attackers had planned the shooting, raising concerns about extremist networks operating within the country. The incident has sparked debates on antisemitism, national security, and public safety in Australia, highlighting the need for vigilance against hate crimes.
This mass shooting at Bondi Beach is one of the deadliest terror-related incidents in Australia in recent years. It has left the nation grieving while prompting urgent discussions about protecting vulnerable communities and preventing extremist violence. Investigations are ongoing, and security has been tightened at Jewish institutions nationwide.
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