Bondi Beach Horror: At Least 12 Killed in ‘Evil Antisemitic’ Terror Shooting at Jewish Hanukkah Event

 

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA — A devastating terror attack struck one of Australia’s most iconic beaches on Sunday evening, December 14, 2025, when gunmen opened fire during a Hanukkah celebration, killing at least 12 people and injuring dozens more in what authorities have declared an antisemitic terrorist incident. TIME+1

The shooting occurred at Archer Park near Bondi Beach, where hundreds of families and visitors were gathered for “Chanukah by the Sea”, marking the first night of the Jewish Festival of Lights. Eyewitnesses described moments of panic as shots echoed through the festive crowd late in the afternoon. TIME

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the attack as “evil antisemitism beyond comprehension,” declaring it a targeted act of terrorism aimed at the Jewish community. A national security meeting was immediately convened as investigators worked to piece together the sequence of events. TIME+1

Casualties and Response

• At least 12 people were killed, including civilians celebrating Hanukkah. Among the dead was a British-born rabbi and a Holocaust survivor, highlighting the symbolic cruelty of the attack. The Guardian

• Approximately 29 others were wounded, including children and two police officers responding to the scene. Many were rushed to nearby hospitals in serious condition. AP News

• One gunman was killed by police, and a second attacker was critically injured and taken into custody; authorities are investigating whether a third suspect was involved. ABC+1

• Bomb disposal experts were called after suspected improvised explosive devices were found in a vehicle near the attack site, though they did not detonate. TIME

Heroism Amid Chaos

Amid the terror, dramatic footage circulated showing a bystander courageously tackling and disarming one of the gunmen, an act officials and community leaders say likely saved many lives. That individual was later hospitalized with injuries sustained in the confrontation. TIME

National and Global Reaction

The attack has sent shockwaves through Australia, a nation with strict gun laws and a long history free from large-scale mass shootings since the 1996 Port Arthur massacre. Leaders from around the world — including from the United States, Europe, and Israel — offered condolences and solidarity with Australia’s Jewish community. euronews

Local Muslim and interfaith groups also condemned the violence, calling for unity and peace across communities. ABC

Ongoing Investigation

Law enforcement agencies, including counter-terrorism units and the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO), are now investigating motives, connections, and whether any further threats exist. Residents in the affected Bondi area were asked to avoid the scene as police operations and forensic work continue. ABC