FLASH
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A serious terrorist incident rocked Sydney on Sunday, when two gunmen opened fire on a crowd celebrating Hanukkah on the famous Bondi Beach.
Australian authorities have confirmed that the incident is a terrorist act targeting the Jewish community and that so far at least 12 people have been killed and 29 others injured, including two police officers. One of the attackers was killed at the scene by police, while the other was arrested in critical condition and is being held in hospital for medical treatment.
New South Wales Police have declared the incident a terrorist incident, while investigations are continuing to verify whether the attackers had other accomplices and to determine the full motives for the attack. Authorities have also found and deactivated improvised explosive devices inside a vehicle linked to the attackers, highlighting the further risk that had threatened the area.
The incident took place at an event called “Chanukah by the Sea 2025”, organized by the Chabad of Bondi, which was attended by thousands of members of the Jewish community and other citizens. Footage and testimonies collected show that two individuals dressed in black fired several shots into the crowd from a bridge near Campbell Parade, causing panic and chaos among those present who tried to take cover or flee.
Reactions of government and local leaders
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the attack as a cruel and unacceptable act of terrorism, expressing his condolences to the victims and their families. He stressed that the government would use all means to protect the safety of communities and assist the injured.
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns stressed that the motive was a mixture of hatred and terrorism, calling for national unity and a strong response to the violence.
Opposition leaders and various political figures condemned the event and welcomed appeals for calm and solidarity between communities.
Reactions from the Jewish community and civil society
Jewish community leaders in Australia expressed grief and uncertainty about the future, noting that the attack affected the sense of security of religious communities. Representatives of Jewish organizations said the incident was a tragic blow as Hanukkah, a holiday symbolizing light and unity, was celebrated.
Religious organizations from other communities, including the National Council of Imams in Australia, also condemned the attack and called for interfaith cooperation and unity, rejecting violence in any form and offering support to the victims and their families.
International reactions and global solidarity
The incident has also sparked widespread reactions from the international community. Leaders of Western countries have strongly condemned the attack and expressed support for Australia and the Jewish community.
The UK Prime Minister, Israeli ministers and figures from the European Union and the US have expressed solidarity with Australia and called for intensifying the fight against anti-Semitism and violent extremism.
Security situation and investigations continue
Authorities are continuing intensive investigations to identify possible links between the attackers and extremist groups. The director of the Australian Intelligence Service has announced that one of the attackers was known to security services, but was not considered an immediate threat before the attack.
Police and emergency services have strengthened their presence in sensitive areas, while citizens have been advised to avoid the beach area and follow official instructions.
The event has sparked deep debate in Australian society about security, extremism, and intercommunal coexistence, as authorities commit to ensuring that such a tragedy never happens again.
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