&imwidth=800&imheight=600&format=webp&quality=medium "Bondi Beach terror attack: Death toll rises to 16 and over 40 injured, says Australian police")
At least 16 people have been confirmed dead, and over 40 others injured following a shooting during a Jewish festival celebration at Bondi Beach in Australia, authorities reported early on Monday (December 15). "Police can confirm 16 people have died and 40 people remain in hospital following Sunday's (December 14) shooting at Bondi," police in New South Wales posted on X. The police did not clarify whether the reported toll included one of the attackers, who was also killed in the incident.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the violence as an "act of evil antisemitism," adding, “An attack on Jewish Australians is an attack on every Australian.” NSW Premier Chris Minns called the attack "horrifying" and "evil," expressing his deep sympathy for the Jewish community. “Our heart bleeds for Australia’s Jewish community tonight,” he said. “I can only imagine the pain that they’re feeling right now, to see their loved ones killed as they celebrate this ancient holiday.” NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon, confirming more than 1,000 people were attending the Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach, described the incident as an “act of terrorism.”
On Sunday (December 14), around 6:40 pm (Australian time), Sydney's Bondi Beach became the scene of a shocking attack when multiple police vehicles were seen rushing toward the area. Witnesses reported hearing several gunshots, and crowds of people fled in panic along Campbell Parade. Images from the scene show two men in black clothing, seemingly armed with rifles, firing from a pedestrian bridge connecting Campbell Parade to Bondi Pavilion. On Sunday (December 14), at least 12 people were confirmed dead by NSW Premier Chris Minns and NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon in a press conference held on Sunday. One of the attackers was reported killed by police. Initial reports had said the death toll at 10.
