At least 12 people at the world-famous beach have been killed.
Terrifying footage has shown the moment hundreds of people fled the scene as the Bondi Beach gunmen opened fire on Saturday evening. Screams can be heard as people scatter, with gunshots audible in the background.
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns later told a press conference: “I very sadly need to report that, as of now, there are at least 12 individuals that have been killed. One of the offenders has also been killed and one is in custody. “This attack was designed to target Sydney’s Jewish community on the first day of Hanukkah, what should have been a night of peace and joy celebrated in that community with families and supporters, has been shattered by this horrifying evil attack.”
Australian PM Anthony Albanese said: “This afternoon there has been a devastating terrorist incident at Bondi at the Hanukkah by the Sea celebration,” he says.
“This is a targeted attack on Jewish Australians on the first day of Hanukkah – which should be a day of joy, a celebration of faith.
“An act of evil antisemitism, terrorism, that has struck the heart of our nation.
“An attack on Jewish Australians is an attack on every Australian.”
Beachgoers at Bondi scatter (Image: X)
The attack unfolded after two people with guns reportedly opened fire on beachgoers.
People were advised to avoid the area and take shelter as police responded to the incident. The NSW Police Force stated in a published statement on X: “Two people are in police custody at Bondi Beach; however, the police operation is ongoing and we continue to urge people to avoid the area.”
A Jewish Hanukkah celebration had reportedly started in the area of the shooting, according to ABC News – although there has been no official confirmation that this event was a target.
Hanukkah, also known as Chanukah, is an eight-day festival of light.
A map of the location (Image: Express)
Bondi Beach is popular with tourists and expats.
Shabana Mahmood said she would speak with her Australian counterpart later on Sunday about the incident on Bondi Beach.
The Home Secretary told the BBC‘s Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg show: “I’ve just seen the breaking news as I’ve arrived into the studio here this morning.
“I can fully understand the anxiety this might be causing people here at home about relatives over in Australia, but first and foremost, our thoughts must be with the victims of this attack in Australia and with with the Australian people as well.
“We will obviously watch closely as details emerge of what exactly has happened, and I’ll be talking to my Australian counterpart later on today.”
