Sun Dec 14 08:37:25 UTC 2025: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Mass Shooting at Bondi Beach Leaves Nine Dead, Several Injured; Suspects in Custody
Sydney, Australia – A mass shooting at Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach on Sunday has left the nation reeling after at least nine people were killed, including one of the alleged shooters. Two suspects are now in custody, with one in critical condition, according to New South Wales police. Eleven others are reported injured, including two police officers.
The incident unfolded in a public area of Bondi Beach. Witnesses reported seeing two gunmen, one of whom was filmed being disarmed by a bystander. Al Jazeera footage shows another shooter positioned on a bridge firing towards the crowd.
While authorities have yet to release detailed information, reports indicate the attack may have targeted a “Chanukah by the Sea” event being held near the beach’s northern end. The Australian Jewish Association and other sources have suggested the event celebrating the Jewish festival of Hanukkah was the target.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called the scenes “shocking and distressing” and assured the public that police and emergency responders are working to save lives. He has been in contact with federal police and the New South Wales Premier.
The incident has sent shockwaves across Australia, where gun violence in public spaces is rare due to strict national gun laws implemented after the 1996 Port Arthur massacre.
President Isaac Herzog of Israel condemned the “cruel” attack, stating it targeted Hanukkah celebrations. He called on the Australian government to combat antisemitism in Australian society.
First Piper 