At least 12 people have died following a horrific shooting at Sydney's iconic Bondi Beach, where two gunmen targeted the Jewish community during its annual Hanukkah celebration. The attack unfolded on the first night of the Jewish holiday, turning a joyful family event into a scene of tragedy. Authorities have described it as a deliberate act of Anti-Semitic terrorism.

One gunman lies among the dead, while the second remains in critical condition, according to a statement from New South Wales Police. Twenty-nine individuals, including two police officers, received hospital treatment amid the chaos. Investigators are probing whether additional assailants played a role, heightening concerns over the full scope of the plot.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the violence in stark terms during a press conference. He labelled it "a targeted attack on Jewish Australians on the first day of Hanukkah—an act of evil antisemitism, terrorism, that has struck the heart of our nation." His words underscored the profound shock rippling through the country.

The incident occurred as hundreds gathered for one of Sydney's largest Jewish community events. Families enjoyed menorah lightings, a petting zoo, children's climbing walls, and other festive activities under the beachside setting. What began as a night of peace and joy shattered into horror, as described by New South Wales Premier Chris Minns.

"This attack was designed to target Sydney’s Jewish community, on the first day of Hanukkah," Minns stated gravely. He highlighted how the evening, meant for celebration with families and supporters, had been marred by "this horrifying evil attack." The premeditated nature of the assault has left the local Jewish population reeling.

Israel's President Isaac Herzog swiftly denounced the shooting as terrorism. In a public message, he expressed solidarity: "Our hearts go out to our Jewish sisters and brothers in Sydney who have been attacked by vile terrorists as they went to light the first candle of Chanukah." His response reflected global Jewish solidarity amid rising tensions.

European leaders also voiced outrage and support. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen offered "heartfelt condolences" and affirmed that "Europe stands with Australia and Jewish communities everywhere." Her statement emphasised a united front against such hatred.

EU chief diplomat Kaja Kallas echoed this sentiment, declaring: "This appalling act of violence against the Jewish community must be unequivocally condemned." These international reactions signal the attack's resonance beyond Australia's borders, framing it as part of a broader struggle against antisemitism.

This tragedy marks Australia's worst mass shooting in decades, coming after stringent gun law reforms sparked by the 1996 Port Arthur massacre in Tasmania. Those reforms drastically curbed firearm access, making such incidents rare. The Bondi attack thus revives painful memories and prompts questions about vulnerabilities in public spaces.

Police response was swift, with officers engaging the gunmen and sustaining injuries themselves. Bondi Beach, a vibrant coastal hub known for its surf culture and tourism, saw its promenade transformed into a cordoned crime scene. Eyewitness accounts describe panic as revellers fled amid gunfire.

The Jewish community's annual Hanukkah event at Bondi has long symbolised resilience and light amid darkness—a core theme of the holiday commemorating the Maccabees' victory. This year's gathering, drawing diverse attendees, amplified the attack's intent to instil fear during a sacred moment. Community leaders have since urged unity and vigilance.

As investigations unfold, counter-terrorism units lead the probe, analysing motives linked to antisemitic ideologies. Security footage and witness testimonies will prove crucial. Australian authorities have bolstered patrols at Jewish sites nationwide, anticipating copycat threats.

The human toll extends beyond the immediate casualties. Families mourn lost loved ones, while survivors grapple with trauma from an event meant for children's delight. Hospitals report a mix of gunshot wounds and injuries from the frantic escape, with psychological support now mobilised.

Prime Minister Albanese's address called for national resolve against division. He stressed Australia's multicultural fabric, vowing that such hatred would not prevail. Political figures across the spectrum have united in condemnation, rare amid polarised times.

Global Jewish organisations, from the World Jewish Congress to local synagogues, have mobilised aid. Fundraising for victims' families and enhanced security measures are underway. The attack coincides with heightened global antisemitism reports, post recent Middle East conflicts.

Bondi Beach's closure disrupts Sydney's summer vibe, with tourists redirected and locals processing the unprecedented violence. Economic ripples affect nearby businesses, though community spirit shines through vigils already forming. Memorials honour the dead, blending Hanukkah candles with tributes.

Law enforcement credits armed off-duty officers for neutralising one attacker swiftly. Forensic teams scour the site for evidence, including weapons and manifestos that might reveal radicalisation paths. International intelligence sharing with allies like Israel and the US accelerates the inquiry.

This event tests Australia's post-1996 gun control efficacy, where buybacks and licensing slashed mass shootings. Experts note the attackers likely exploited legal loopholes or illicit arms. Debates on further restrictions loom, balanced against public safety.

For Sydney's Jewish community—numbering around 50,000—Hanukkah now carries a sombre legacy. Rabbis frame resilience as the holiday's enduring lesson, urging defiance through celebration. Interfaith gatherings foster solidarity, countering isolation.

Prime Minister Albanese pledged federal resources for recovery, including mental health services. Premier Minns announced state inquiries into event security gaps. These steps aim to restore trust in communal events.

Internationally, the UN and allies monitor developments, with US President-elect comments anticipated. Herzog's outreach highlights Israel-Australia defence ties, potentially deepening cooperation on extremism. Von der Leyen's stance reinforces EU bonds.

As night falls on Bondi, the menorah's light persists symbolically. Victims' names emerge slowly, personalising the loss: parents, children, elders united in faith. Australia's resolve hardens against terror's shadow.

The attack's timing—first Hanukkah candle—amplifies its malice, striking at hope's ignition. Yet community voices affirm: darkness yields to light. Investigations continue, justice beckons, and Sydney heals.

Agencies