In a tragic event that shocked Australia, a father and son carried out a targeted antisemitic attack during a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach in Sydney, resulting in the deaths of 15 people. The attack unfolded on a warm Sunday evening, as approximately 1,000 attendees gathered to commemorate the festival. The father, aged 50, was killed at the scene, while his 24-year-old son remains in critical condition in the hospital, according to police.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene, with the shooting lasting around 10 minutes, causing hundreds of people to flee in panic. The victims, ranging in age from 10 to 87, included two police officers who are currently in serious but stable condition. Following the attack, police confirmed that they believe only the two attackers were involved in the incident, dispelling initial concerns of a third offender.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese visited the site, labeling the occurrence a “dark moment for our nation.” He denounced the violence as an act of “pure evil, an act of antisemitism, an act of terrorism.” Albanese emphasized the importance of standing with the Jewish community, expressing a commitment to combat antisemitism in all its forms. He noted that world leaders, including U.S. President Trump and French President Macron, have expressed their condolences and solidarity.
The quick actions of a bystander during the attack who disarmed one of the shooters have been commended, with many recognizing him as a hero for potentially saving lives. As the investigation continues, police presence has been heightened in Jewish communities around Australia.
Rabbi Mendel Kastel, who lost his brother-in-law in the event, urged community strength and togetherness in the aftermath of tragedy. He conveyed the importance of unity, stating, “We need to step up at a time like this, be there for each other, and come together. And we will, and we will get through this, and we know that.”
This incident marks the most severe antisemitic attack in Australia since the onset of the war in Gaza in October 2023 and is part of a worrying trend of violence against Jewish communities in the country. With a Jewish population of about 150,000 in Australia, predominantly located in Sydney, local and global security measures have been intensified around Jewish events, especially during Hanukkah celebrations in major cities worldwide.