SYDNEY, Australia – A Hanukkah celebration at Sydney’s Bondi Beach was tragically disrupted when two gunmen opened fire, killing 16 people, including a child, according to an Associated Press report. The attack occurred during a gathering for the first day of Hanukkah.
In response, WA Senator Maria Cantwell joined global leaders in condemning the attack. “The world should condemn the senseless and horrific attack at a Hanukkah celebration in Australia,” she said. “Jewish people should feel safe in their own communities every single day, but especially as they celebrate their holidays.”
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also condemned the incident, describing it as an act of antisemitic terrorism. “This is a targeted attack on Jewish Australians on the first day of Hanukkah, which should be a day of joy,” he said.
New South Wales Health Minister Ryan Park confirmed that the death toll had risen to 16, including a 12-year-old child. “This is absolutely horrendous for the community broadly, but particularly the Jewish community,” Park said.
The violence at Bondi Beach follows a surge in antisemitic incidents across Australia. The Jewish community has been particularly affected, with synagogues, businesses, and homes targeted in recent attacks.
The incident marks one of the deadliest shootings in Australia in decades, a country known for its strict gun control laws. Following the tragedy, police in cities worldwide have increased security at Jewish sites.
