Deadly Shooting at Bondi Beach Targets Hanukkah Crowd, Sydney Reels

Gunfire erupted on the first night of Hanukkah at a family event called Chanukah by the Sea on Bondi Beach on Sunday evening, leaving at least 10 to 12 people dead and roughly a dozen injured, New South Wales authorities said. Organised by Chabad of Bondi, the outdoor ceremony drew more than 1,000 people according to contemporaneous police statements, and unfolded at a moment when the summer tourist season typically brings large crowds to the shoreline.

New South Wales police said two gunmen opened fire. Officers engaged the attackers, fatally shooting one assailant and taking a second into custody. The New South Wales ambulance service told reporters it was called to the scene at about 6:45 p.m. in response to reports of multiple people shot. Authorities warned the public to stay away from Bondi Beach and advised nearby residents to shelter while the operation continued.

A few hours after the attack the police declared the incident to be a terrorist act, citing the timing during a Jewish festival, the targeting of a religious gathering, and the weapons recovered at the scene. Premier Chris Minns said the attack "was designed to target Sydney’s Jewish community." Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the assault as an "act of evil antisemitism" in remarks delivered as officials mobilised investigative resources and victim support.

Chabad of Bondi confirmed that the event organiser was among those killed and reported casualties within its community. ABC News cited the group as saying that Eli Schlanger, an assistant rabbi, was killed in the attack. The Jewish Council of Australia said the community was "horrified and shaken," and that many had received "the worst news of their lives," while others were caring for wounded family members or still awaiting news about missing loved ones.

Emergency services remained on scene into the night conducting casualty treatment, securing the area and gathering evidence. Police said investigations would focus on the assailants’ identities, any networks or accomplices, the origin of their weapons and whether there were wider threats to the city. Official casualty figures were still being reconciled as agencies crosschecked hospital reports and witness accounts.

Beyond the immediate human toll, the attack is likely to have economic and social repercussions. Bondi Beach is a prominent tourism hub whose summer months typically generate concentrated business for cafes, retailers and hotels. In the short term closures, tightened security and public fear could reduce foot traffic and bookings for local businesses at a key revenue moment. The incident will also increase demand for public safety spending, from policing to protective measures for religious institutions, and could prompt renewed policy debates over counterterrorism, hate crime legislation and firearm controls.

For now the focus remains on victims and their families, as well as on stabilising a shaken community. Authorities asked anyone with information or footage to come forward as they work to piece together a full picture of the attack and to ensure there is no further danger to the city.