A tragic incident unfolded at Bondi Beach in Sydney, where at least 16 people, including a 10-year-old child, lost their lives in a terrorist attack during a Hanukkah celebration. The perpetrators were identified as a father and son duo, with the father being shot dead by police at the scene. The son, critically injured, is under police guard in the hospital.
The NSW Police confirmed that the attackers were not part of a larger group, dispelling fears of a third offender. The authorities are working to identify the victims, who range in age from 10 to 87, emphasizing the need to combat anti-Semitism in all its forms.
The community is in shock as five individuals remain in critical condition, with others stable or serious. The Health Minister revealed that the death toll had risen overnight, including a French national among the deceased. Among the victims was Rabbi Eli Schlanger, whose family confirmed his tragic passing.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese denounced the attack as a dark day in the nation’s history, calling for unity and resilience in the face of such violence. The government has launched a thorough investigation into the incident, with concerns raised about the response time and intelligence prior to the attack.
World leaders, including Israeli President Isaac Herzog and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, expressed solidarity and condemnation for the act of terrorism. Netanyahu urged strong action against anti-Semitism, emphasizing the need for leaders to combat such hatred.
