A terror attack at Bondi Beach during a Jewish festival resulted in the deaths of 16 people, including a child, and left 38 others injured, with some in critical condition. The attack, described as a "horrendous," "vile," and "purely antisemitic attack," occurred on the first night of Hanukkah, with victims reportedly targeted as they celebrated their faith. Among the deceased confirmed was Dan Elkayam, a French national, whose death was mourned by the French Foreign Minister, who vowed to eradicate antisemitism.
The gunman, a 24-year-old man, was shot dead by police at the scene, while another shooter was taken to hospital with critical injuries under police guard. Authorities seized three firearms and launched a counter-terrorism investigation. The injuries sustained by victims were described as "extensive," "explosive," and "catastrophic," with head and upper torso injuries.
The attack drew widespread condemnation from global leaders, including Israeli President Isaac Herzog, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, all of whom denounced the antisemitic nature of the violence and offered condolences to the Jewish community and Australia. Former Australian Treasurer Josh Frydenberg criticized Australian leaders for offering "hollow words" in response to rising antisemitism, stating that "Australia is no longer safe for Jews" and demanding significant change. Liberal Senator Dave Sharma acknowledged knowing some victims and emphasized the need to "redouble our resolve" against hate crimes targeting minority groups.
A bystander was hailed as a hero for tackling one of the gunmen and disarming him, an act praised for potentially preventing further casualties. King Charles III and the Prince and Princess of Wales also extended their condolences, expressing solidarity with Australia and the Jewish community. The scene at Bondi Beach the following morning showed remnants of the festival, with people in stunned silence observing the coast.