BREAKING: A shooting at a Chanukah event on Bondi Beach, Australia, has resulted in at least three fatalities and six injuries, according to early reports. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as approximately 2,000 community members fled in panic during the attack on the evening of December 10, 2023.
Authorities confirm that two armed assailants initially fled the scene, but New South Wales Police have since taken two suspects into custody. The police described the situation as a “developing incident” and have urged the public to avoid the area. In a social media post, they stated, “Anyone at the scene should take shelter. Police are on scene and more information will be provided when it comes to hand.”
Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots near Campbell Parade, leading to widespread panic among attendees, many of whom were families celebrating the first night of Chanukah. A member of the Jewish community shared with Ynet news that the event was organized by Chabad and intended primarily for parents with young children.
In response to the tragedy, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called the scenes “shocking and distressing.” He has been in contact with the Australian Federal Police commissioner and the New South Wales Premier to coordinate emergency responses. Albanese stated, “We are working with NSW police and will provide further updates as more information is confirmed. Police and emergency responders are on the ground working to save lives.”
The attack comes just days after the J7 coalition of international Jewish organizations visited Australia to address rising antisemitism. Jeremy Leibler, President of the Zionist Federation of Australia, expressed profound grief, stating, “This is a day of profound grief. Members of our community have been murdered. Others have been seriously injured. Families are shattered.”
Leibler emphasized the significance of the attack, declaring, “An attack on Jews celebrating their faith is an attack on Australia itself. It is an assault on our values, our social cohesion, and the basic right of people to gather without fear.” He called for urgent action from Australian authorities, underscoring that unchecked antisemitism has led to this moment of violence.
As the situation unfolds, authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack. Witnesses and victims’ families are left grappling with the aftermath of a celebration that turned into a scene of horror. The community is now in mourning, united in their determination that such acts of terror will not deter them from celebrating their faith or living freely in Australia.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.