16 killed in Terror attack on Jewish Gathering at Australia’s Bondi Beach
15th Dec. 2025
Sydney, Two gunmen opened fire on a crowded Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach on Sunday evening, killing several people and wounding dozens. The attack, which took place as hundreds had gathered for a community event by the sea, is quickly declared as a terrorist incident and described by the prime minister as a deliberate assault on Jewish Australians.
What we know so far about Bondi’s Terrorist attack: key facts
- The shooting occurred on the first night of Hanukkah at a community event near Bondi Beach.
- Authorities said at least 16 people were killed; some outlets reported 15. Dozens were injured and taken to hospital.
- One of the terrorist was killed at the scene; another was critically injured and taken into custody. Bomb squads removed explosive devices from a nearby vehicle.
- Two gunmen have been identified as a father and son, Naveed Akram and Sajid Akram. Both terrorists were in Australia on a tourist visa.
- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed anger on lack of action against antisemitism in Australia.
- King Charles has issued a statement condemning the attack.
- Indian PM Modi has strongly condemned the Bondi terrorist attack.
Police and emergency services converged on the scene in the eastern suburbs of Sydney shortly after the first calls came in. Videos circulating on social media and verified by local outlets showed people running from the park and stretchers carrying the injured. Authorities said one of the two attackers, was killed at the scene and another was taken into custody in a critical condition. At the same time, detectives moved to examine a vehicle near the site that contained suspicious devices.
Some Australian broadcasters and local officials reported 16 fatalities, including one of the alleged shooters. Other international outlets and police briefings cited at least 15 people killed. Dozens of people were taken to the hospitals.
How Terrorist attacked Bondi
Witnesses said the shooting began just after dusk near Campbell Parade, where an annual “Chanukah by the Sea” event was taking place. Two men in dark clothing were seen on an elevated footbridge and nearby areas firing into the crowd, according to footage and eyewitness accounts. A number of bystanders and first responders intervened; video shows a brave man rushing forward and tackling one of the shooter, an act that may have prevented further loss of life.
Australia’s political leaders responded with shock and condemnation. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called the attack “an act of evil antisemitism” and convened national security officials. New South Wales authorities labeled the incident a terrorism matter and said investigators from state and federal agencies, including counterterrorism units, were involved.
The attack has sharpened long-standing concerns about rising antisemitism in Australia since the outbreak of the Israel–Gaza conflict in 2023. Security agencies had warned in recent months about heightened tensions and a possible increase in targeted attacks on Jewish institutions and gatherings.
The investigation is ongoing. Police asked anyone with footage or information to come forward as officers searched properties connected to the suspects. Officials also cautioned about speculation while they pieced together timelines, motives and potential wider threats.
Web Resources on Bondi terrorist attack
1. Reuters.com: Gunmen kill 11 at Australia’s Bondi Beach Jewish holiday event.
2. ABC.net: Bondi Beach shooting: 12 people confirmed dead and several injured in terrorist attack on Jewish community event.
3. Gaurdian.com: Bondi beach terror attack.
4. Police.nsw: Police operation continues at Bondi Beach.