A devastating terrorist attack shook Sydney, Australia, on 14 December 2025, when two gunmen opened fire on a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach, killing at least 15 people and injuring dozens more. Authorities and international observers have described the assault as an antisemitic terror incident, marking the deadliest mass shooting in Australia in nearly three decades.
The attack unfolded in the late afternoon near Archer Park, adjacent to Bondi Beach, one of Australia’s most iconic coastal areas. A large crowd — including families, children, and community members — had gathered for the first day of the Chanukah by the Sea event when the assailants began firing indiscriminately with multiple weapons.
According to official reports, the attackers were identified as Sajid Akram, 50, and his 24-year-old son Naveed Akram. Sajid was killed in a confrontation with responding police officers at the scene, while Naveed was critically injured and taken into custody under police guard. Investigators recovered several firearms and two homemade explosive devices from their vehicle.
Eyewitness footage and accounts from bystanders captured the chaos and fear as the shooting began. In one particularly striking moment, a civilian identified as Ahmed al Ahmed, a local shop owner, intervened and disarmed one of the gunmen, likely saving additional lives before being injured himself and hospitalized.
Victims of the attack ranged widely in age and background. Among the deceased were a 10-year-old child, Holocaust survivor Alex Kleytman, and Rabbi Eli Schlanger, a respected figure in the Jewish community. Others killed included local residents, international visitors, and community leaders gathered for the holiday celebration. Scores of others were injured and taken to hospitals across Sydney, with several in critical condition.
Australian authorities quickly responded, securing the area and increasing security at places of worship throughout Sydney and other cities. The tragedy has reignited debates over gun control, hate crimes, and counterterrorism policies, with the Australian government pledging to tighten firearm regulations and enforce stricter licensing reviews. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the attack as “pure evil” and vowed intensified efforts to combat antisemitism and prevent future violence.
International leaders and communities have expressed solidarity with Australia and the Jewish community during this difficult time. Vigils, moments of silence, and global condemnations followed the attack, highlighting the profound impact on families and communities both locally and abroad.
As the investigation continues, authorities are focusing on the motives behind the attack and how the father-son team was able to carry out such a coordinated assault. Officials emphasize that, while links to extremist ideology are under scrutiny, there is no indication that a broader terrorist network was directly involved.
The Bondi Beach terror attack not only shattered a peaceful holiday celebration but also served as a stark reminder of how quickly violence can strike even the most open and celebrated public spaces. In the wake of the tragedy, communities around the world are calling for unity, resilience, and stronger safeguards against hate-driven violence.