Gunmen Target Jewish Celebration at Bondi Beach, Killing at Least 12

Sydney, Australia — At least 12 people were killed and dozens injured after gunmen opened fire during a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach on Saturday evening, in what Australian authorities are treating as a targeted terrorist attack against the Jewish community.

The shooting unfolded near Bondi Park as approximately 2,000 members of Sydney’s Jewish community gathered for a public Hanukkah event organized by Chabad. Witnesses said the attack began suddenly during a speech by a community leader, triggering scenes of panic as families — many with young children — fled across the beach in search of safety.

Among those killed were Chabad emissary Eli Schlanger and a student from a local Jewish school, according to community officials. Video footage circulating online showed victims lying on the ground, personal religious items stained with blood, and civilians assisting police in subduing at least two of the attackers. Authorities are investigating reports that a third shooter was neutralized by a bystander.

Eyewitnesses described gunfire originating from a nearby bridge overlooking the gathering, amplifying fear as attendees initially struggled to identify the source of the attack. Emergency services responded rapidly, but New South Wales Police urged residents to shelter in place as officers secured the area and assessed the threat.

A member of Sydney’s Jewish community, who was en route to the event, described the atmosphere as one of shock and disbelief. “This was a family event, mostly children. Australians aren’t used to this kind of violence. There’s a lot of fear right now,” the individual said.

Local Jewish leaders said the attack comes amid a sustained rise in antisemitic threats and harassment across Australia. Several community members expressed frustration that warnings had not been taken seriously enough. “We all knew it was only a matter of time,” one resident said. “Some politicians dismissed what was happening around us.”

The Australian Prime Minister’s office said Anthony Albanese had been briefed and urged the public to follow police instructions as the investigation continues. New South Wales Police confirmed counterterrorism units are leading the inquiry.

Israel’s President Isaac Herzog condemned the attack in a statement, calling it “a vile act of terror against Jews who had gathered to light the first candle of Hanukkah.” He said Israel was praying for the wounded and called on Australian authorities to confront what he described as a growing wave of antisemitism.

International Jewish organizations echoed those concerns, urging Australia to strengthen protections for Jewish institutions and public gatherings. As of Sunday, authorities had not released the identities of all victims and said casualty figures could change as investigations continue.

Bondi Beach remains partially closed as forensic teams examine the scene. Police have asked the public to avoid the area while security operations remain ongoing.