There has been a major terrorist shooting attack at Bondi Beach in Sydney connected to a Jewish holiday event. At least a dozen people have been killed and many more injured.
What occurred
Two gunmen opened fire near a large Hanukkah celebration organized by the local Chabad community at Bondi Beach on 14 December 2025, targeting attendees gathered along the beachfront area and nearby Campbell Parade. A large crowd had assembled for the first night of Hanukkah when shots were reported, causing panic as people fled and sought shelter in surrounding streets and venues.
Casualties and victims
Authorities have confirmed that around 11–12 people were killed in the attack, including one of the two shooters. Roughly 29 others were injured, among them at least two police officers and members of the Jewish community attending the event.
Suspects and police response
Police state that there were two attackers dressed in dark clothing, armed with firearms, who were engaged by New South Wales Police at the scene. One gunman was shot dead and the second was shot, arrested, and remains in serious or critical condition, with officers declaring there is no ongoing active threat but maintaining a security operation in the area.
Motive and classification
Officials have described the shooting as a terrorist incident and said it was intended to target Sydney’s Jewish community during Hanukkah. Authorities have also referred to the attack as antisemitic, and one of the suspects was reportedly previously known to Australia’s security agency.
Notable actions and ongoing situation
A bystander, identified in local reports as 43‑year‑old Ahmed al Ahmed, tackled one of the gunmen and wrestled away his weapon, being shot twice in the process and credited with likely preventing further deaths. Police also located suspected improvised explosive devices in a car linked to one of the attackers near the beach and had bomb squad officers make them safe, while asking the public to avoid the Bondi area as investigations continue.