Twelve killed as gunmen open fire at Hanukkah event in Australia

No fewer than 12 people have been killed after two gunmen opened fire on a crowd celebrating Hanukkah, the Jewish festival of lights, at Sydney’s popular Bondi Beach in Australia.

Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon confirmed that more than 1,000 people were gathered at the venue when the attack occurred, describing it as a “terrorist incident”.

He disclosed that 29 people were rushed to various hospitals, including a child and two police officers who are currently in serious, near-critical condition and undergoing surgery.

According to Lanyon, one of the attackers was killed during the incident, while the second suspected gunman remains in critical condition.

Police are also investigating the possibility that a third attacker may have been involved, as two additional suspects are currently in custody.

During preliminary investigations, law enforcement officers reportedly discovered what are believed to be several improvised explosive devices linked to the deceased attacker, further heightening security concerns.

Reacting to the incident, New South Wales Premier Chris Minns condemned the attack, describing it as a deliberate attempt to target Sydney’s Jewish community.

He praised the bravery of a civilian who was captured on video tackling one of the gunmen from behind, wrestling away his weapon and forcing him to retreat.

“That man is a genuine hero. There is no doubt that many lives were saved because of his courage,” Minns said.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also condemned the attack, calling it “a vile act of violence and hate”.

“This is an act of evil antisemitism and terrorism that has struck at the heart of our nation. Australia is not a place for such hatred,” the prime minister said.

Public mass shootings are extremely rare in Australia, following strict gun control laws introduced after the 1996 Tasmania massacre, where 35 people were killed. The Sydney incident has reignited national discussions around security, extremism and public safety.

Authorities have launched a full investigation into the attack, while security has been heightened across Sydney as the nation mourns the victims of what officials have described as one of the deadliest terror incidents in recent years.

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