Bondi Beach terror attack: 'Terrible and antisemitic attack', says Donald Trump

US President Donald Trump has strongly condemned the deadly shooting at Sydney’s Bondi Beach that claimed at least 16 lives on Sunday (December 14). Addressing the media at the White House, Trump described the incident as a horrific and deeply troubling act of violence. Authorities confirmed that 16 people were killed and 40 others, including two police officers, were injured when gunfire erupted as crowds gathered to observe the Jewish festival of Hanukkah.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese later characterised the attack as an act of antisemitic terrorism. Police revealed that at least two attackers were involved in the shooting. One suspect has been reportedly been identified as Naveed Akram, while investigators are examining whether a third gunman may have also participated.

Also Read: Bondi Beach terror attack: Death toll rises to 16 and over 40 injured, says Australian police

Speaking during a Christmas event at the White House, Trump called the shooting an unmistakable act of antisemitic violence. He also highlighted the courage of a bystander who intervened during the chaos. Trump praised the man for confronting one of the armed attackers head-on, saying his actions prevented further loss of life. The individual, who was injured and hospitalized, earned Trump’s admiration for his bravery. "Very, very brave person, who went and frontally attacked one of the shooters and saved a lot of lives. Very brave person, right now in the hospital, wounded. Great respect to the man that did that," said Trump.

A video circulating online shows 43-year-old fruit vendor Ahmed al Ahmed rushing toward one of the shooters from behind. Despite the attacker carrying a rifle and firing at civilians, Ahmed managed to overpower him, seize the weapon, and force the gunman to retreat. The footage later shows the bystander placing the weapon down as another shooter is seen in the distance near a bridge.