Mass Shooting Rocks Bondi Beach During Hanukkah Celebration

A tragic mass shooting erupted at a Jewish festival at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, on December 14, 2025, leaving at least 15 dead. Authorities described the incident as a terrorist attack, deliberately targeting Sydney’s Jewish community during the first day of Hanukkah at the Chanukah by the Sea event.

The attack shocked locals and visitors alike, with video footage showing beach-goers fleeing in panic as gunfire erupted, turning a day of celebration into a scene of horror.

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Australian Leaders Condemn the Attack

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese strongly condemned the assault, calling it a “targeted” and incomprehensible attack. Addressing the Jewish community, he said:

“You have the right to worship, study, work, and live in peace and safety. We will dedicate every resource required to make sure you are safe and protected.”

Australian authorities have mobilized law enforcement to secure the area and investigate the perpetrators.

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International Leaders Voice Shock and Solidarity

The Bondi Beach shooting has drawn swift condemnation from global leaders and international organizations:

• New Zealand: Prime Minister Chris Luxon emphasized the close ties between Australia and New Zealand, expressing sympathy for those affected.
• United States: President Donald Trump described it as a “purely anti-Semitic attack,” with Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirming support for the victims and the Jewish community.
• United Nations: Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called the shooting “heinous” and extended condolences to Jewish families worldwide.
• Israel: President Isaac Herzog condemned the attack as “cruel” and confirmed at least one Israeli among the victims.
• Palestine: Expressed solidarity with Australia and condemned all forms of violence and terrorism.

European nations, including the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Netherlands, Finland, Italy, Spain, Norway, and the European Union, also denounced the attack, emphasizing that anti-Semitism has no place in modern society.

Middle Eastern countries including Iran, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Jordan, and organizations such as the Muslim World League and Australian National Imams Council condemned the attack as terrorism and expressed solidarity with the victims.

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Community Leaders React

Religious leaders across the world also expressed outrage. UK Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis called the shooting an “unspeakable tragedy” and urged collective prayers for those affected. Local and international Jewish communities expressed grief and solidarity with Sydney’s Jewish population.

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Global Implications and Rising Concerns About Anti-Semitism

The Bondi Beach attack has reignited global concern about rising anti-Semitic violence. Leaders have stressed the need for unified action to combat hate crimes and protect minority communities.

Australian authorities have promised to strengthen security and review gun laws in response to the incident, while communities worldwide mourn the victims of a holiday celebration turned tragedy.