In a horrifying act of pure hatred, gunmen targeted innocent families celebrating Hanukkah at Australia's iconic Bondi Beach, leaving at least 15 dead and dozens wounded in the nation's worst mass shooting in decades.
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| Image: Video Screenshot |
The world is in shock after two gunmen – identified as a father and son – opened fire on hundreds gathered for the "Chanukah by the Sea" event on December 14, 2025. Australian officials have declared it a deliberate antisemitic terrorist attack, striking at the heart of the Jewish community on the first night of the Festival of Lights.
Horrific Details Emerge from the Bloodbath
Chaos erupted around 6:45 PM as the attackers unleashed terror on the crowded beach celebration. Victims included children, a beloved Chabad rabbi, and international visitors. At least 15 people were killed, with dozens more hospitalized in critical condition.
Heroic bystander Ahmed al Ahmed tackled one gunman, disarming him and saving countless lives – but not before unimaginable tragedy unfolded.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called it "an act of pure evil, an act of antisemitism, an act of terrorism." The attack is the deadliest in Australia since the 1996 Port Arthur massacre.
US Leaders Slam the 'Heinous' Massacre
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio strongly condemned the attack, stating: “The United States strongly condemns the terrorist attack... Antisemitism has no place in this world. Our prayers are with the victims of this horrific attack, the Jewish community, and the people of Australia.”
Rubio later spoke with Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, reaffirming US solidarity.
President Donald Trump addressed the tragedy during a White House event, calling it a “terrible attack… an antisemitic attack, obviously” and labeling it "purely antisemitic."
Global Outrage: World Leaders Unite Against Hate
Condemnations poured in from around the globe, with leaders vowing to fight rising antisemitism. The attack highlights a disturbing surge in hate crimes against Jewish communities worldwide.
As investigations continue, Australia mourns – but the spirit of Hanukkah, the triumph of light over darkness, endures.