Sydney’s Bondi Beach was the scene of a deadly attack on a Hanukkah celebration on Sunday, leaving at least 16 people dead—including a 12‑year‑old child—and 40 injured, according to New South Wales officials.
Suspected perpetrators
Police briefings identified a father‑son duo as the alleged offenders and confirmed they are not seeking a third suspect. Investigators also recovered an explosive device in a vehicle linked to one of the gunmen, and named a further suspect, Naveed Akram of southwest Sydney.
Victims and personal losses
The death toll rose from 12 to 16 overnight, with three additional children receiving treatment. Among the dead were French national Dan Elkayam, an Israeli citizen, and Rabbi Eli Schlanger, an assistant rabbi who helped organize the event.
International condemnation
World leaders denounced the attack. French President Emmanuel Macron expressed deep sadness for Dan Elkayam. U.S. President Donald Trump called it a “purely antisemitic attack,” while Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the United States “strongly condemns” the violence. King Charles III called it “the most dreadful antisemitic terrorist attack” and praised heroic responders.
Security measures worldwide
In response, Berlin police heightened security around the Brandenburg Gate’s electric menorah, New York Mayor Eric Adams deployed extra protection for citywide Hanukkah events, and Warsaw doubled armed security at its main synagogue. Polish police also announced heightened measures.
Local heroism
Footage shows 43‑year‑old fruit seller Ahmed al Ahmed confronting a gunman, wresting the weapon away and sustaining two gunshot wounds. Authorities hail his actions as possibly saving many lives.
What could happen next?
Authorities may continue to investigate the father‑son duo and any additional links to Naveed Akram, potentially leading to further arrests. Governments worldwide could maintain or increase security deployments during Jewish holidays, and Australian officials might expand resources for community protection, as promised by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Analysts expect ongoing dialogue about hate‑motivated violence and possible legislative reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the alleged perpetrators of the Bondi Beach shooting?
Police say a father‑son duo is believed to be behind the attack, and they are not looking for a third offender. An explosive device was found in a vehicle linked to one suspect, identified as Naveed Akram.
What is the confirmed death toll from the attack?
The death toll was updated to 16, including a 12‑year‑old child. Three other children remain in hospital.
How have other countries responded to the incident?
France’s President expressed sadness over a French victim, the United States condemned the attack, the United Kingdom’s King Charles III called it a dreadful antisemitic terrorist act, and several cities—Berlin, New York, Warsaw—have intensified security around Hanukkah events.
How do you think communities and governments should balance heightened security with everyday freedoms in the wake of such an attack?
