On December 14, 2025, a shooting occurred during a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, resulting in at least 12 to 16 deaths and numerous injuries, with reports indicating that 29 to 40 individuals were hospitalized. The event, attended by approximately 1,000 people, was marked by chaos as gunfire erupted, initially mistaken for fireworks. Eyewitness accounts described scenes of panic as families fled the area, with some seeking shelter in nearby restaurants.

The assailants, identified as Naveed Akram, 24, and his 50-year-old father, utilized six legally-owned firearms in the attack, which lasted over ten minutes. The father was killed during a confrontation with law enforcement, while Naveed Akram sustained critical injuries and is currently hospitalized. Authorities have classified the incident as an act of terrorism, specifically targeting the Jewish community on the first day of Hanukkah, a time traditionally associated with peace and celebration.

New South Wales Police confirmed that two suspects are in custody and emphasized the ongoing nature of the investigation. They discovered improvised explosive devices in a vehicle associated with the attackers, raising further concerns about the potential for coordinated violence.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the attack as an act of antisemitism and terrorism, stating that it represents a dark moment for the nation and reaffirming a commitment to combat hate and violence. New South Wales Premier Chris Minns described the incident as a cowardly act that shattered a night meant for joy, highlighting the need for unity in the face of such violence.

This incident marks the deadliest mass shooting in Australia since the Port Arthur massacre in 1996, which led to significant changes in the country’s gun laws, including a ban on semi-automatic rifles. Despite these measures, the Bondi Beach shooting raises questions about the effectiveness of current gun control policies, as the perpetrators were able to acquire and use firearms legally. The attack has sparked discussions regarding the ongoing challenges of gun violence and the implications for public safety and community security in Australia.

The incident has heightened concerns regarding the safety of Jewish communities in Australia, particularly in light of a troubling trend of rising antisemitic violence since the escalation of conflict in the Middle East in October 2023. Reports indicate that antisemitic incidents have reached unprecedented levels, underscoring the urgent need for effective measures to protect vulnerable communities during cultural celebrations.