Two attackers open fire on Jews celebrating Hanukkah festival at Sydney's Bondi Beach in Australia; 10 die, many injured
Two attackers opened fire on Jews celebrating the Hanukkah festival at Sydney's Bondi Beach in Australia on Sunday afternoon. Ten people were killed, including one of the attackers.
Located in eastern Sydney, Bondi Beach is a world-famous beach with national heritage status.
Police shot both attackers to bring the situation under control. According to officials, one attacker died, while the other is in critical condition.
One of the two attackers who opened fire on Jews has been identified as Naveed Akram. Police recovered his driver's license. Naveed is 24 years old.
Videos of the incident have gone viral on social media. One video shows a large number of people running on the sand at North Bondi Beach, while loud gunshots can be heard.
Another video shows two young men in black clothing standing on the street and firing what appears to be a rifle.
Police said that some suspicious objects were found near the scene. Authorities are investigating them. An exclusion zone has been implemented in the area as a precaution.
16 people admitted to various hospitals
New South Wales Ambulance provided an update at 8:40 pm, stating that 16 people have been admitted to various hospitals in Sydney so far. Several others are still being treated at the scene.
The injured include a child with a hand injury, a 62-year-old woman with a leg injury, and a man who suffered a graze wound to the head.
Following the mass shooting at Bondi Beach, the Hanukkah festival scheduled to be held in Melbourne has been canceled.
This information was posted on the social media platform X by an advocacy group associated with the Jewish community.
Muslim group condemn
A major Australian Muslim organisation has condemned the Bondi Beach shooting as a “horrific” act of violence.
“Our hearts, thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families, and all those who witnessed or were affected by this deeply traumatic attack,” the Australian National Imams Council said in a statement.
“This is a moment for all Australians, including the Australian Muslim community, to stand together in unity, compassion, and solidarity,” it added.
Jews urged to stay home
In light of the security situation in Sydney, the Jewish Board of Deputies has urged members of the Jewish community to remain in their homes. The board has closed all programs and community institutions until further notice.
The board said that people are requested to stay home and remain in safe locations until further notice.
According to the statement, Jewish community leaders are in constant contact with the police and the government. Further information will be provided after a review of the situation.