Mass Shooting at Sydney’s Bondi Beach Leaves at Least 16 Dead During Hanukkah Gathering

At least 16 people have been killed and approximately 40 others injured in a mass shooting at Bondi Beach in Sydney, where a large crowd had assembled to mark the first night of Hanukkah, Australian authorities confirmed. The wounded are receiving treatment at multiple hospitals across the city, with several reported to be in serious condition.
Officials said the victims span a wide range of ages, from young children to older adults, underscoring the indiscriminate nature of the attack. Among the deceased is one of the suspected shooters. A second alleged gunman sustained critical injuries during the incident and has been taken into custody under police guard.
Law enforcement agencies have formally classified the incident as a terrorist attack. A significant security operation remains underway, with emergency services maintaining a wide cordon around the beachfront area while forensic teams examine the scene and investigators work to establish the sequence of events, potential motives, and whether any accomplices were involved.
The attack occurred during a religious celebration, intensifying concerns around targeted violence, community safety, and antisemitism. Political leaders at both the federal and state levels have expressed condolences to the victims’ families and solidarity with the Jewish community, while calling for calm as the investigation proceeds.
The shooting has triggered national mourning and reignited debate in Australia over public event security, hate-motivated violence, and the adequacy of existing gun control measures. Authorities have indicated that further updates will be provided as more verified information becomes available.