Overview
Two gunmen opened fire at a Jewish festival event 'Chanukah by the Sea' on Sydney's Bondi Beach on December 14, 2025, at approximately 6:45 PM local time, killing at least 11 and injuring 29 in what authorities declared a terrorist attack targeting the Jewish community.[3]
Key Developments
- Gunmen shot dead 11 people; one was fatally shot by police, the second arrested in critical condition, NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon confirmed at a press conference.[3]
- 29 wounded, including two police officers; emergency services responded to Campbell Parade after reports of shots fired at 6:45 PM.[3]
- An improvised explosive device found in one suspect's car; hundreds fled the scene amid chaos, eyewitness Moran described: 'Everyone just dropped all their possessions and were running and people were crying.'[3]
- Event drew hundreds for Hanukkah celebration start.[3]
Analysis
| Factor | Current Status | Implications |
|---|---|---|
| Economic | Massive emergency response strains local resources | Boost in security funding for public events in Australia |
| Political | Declared terrorist attack by NSW authorities | Heightened national security alerts, potential gun law reviews |
| Social | Jewish community mourns amid shock; Premier Minns: 'Our heart bleeds for Australia's Jewish community tonight.' | Increased vigilance at religious gatherings worldwide |
Expert Reactions
NSW Premier Chris Minns said: 'This attack was designed to target Sydney's Jewish community.' Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon noted: 'The death toll is fluid as injured arrive at hospitals.' Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated: 'The scenes in Bondi are shocking and distressing.'[3]
What's Next
Ongoing police operation with suspicious items under examination; full investigation report expected within 48 hours, hospitals treating wounded as of late December 14.[3]