A terrorist attack during a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach, Australia, on December 14 left fifteen dead, including one attacker, and more than 30 injured, including two police officers.
The attack, which occurred around evening, was captured in video footage that showed people running for their lives as gunshots rang out.
A dramatic video shows bystander Ahmed al Ahmed heroically disarming a gunman at Bondi Beach. He tackles the attacker, seizes the firearm, and defends others as the gunman flees. Another man is seen running for safety, while police arrive and administer CPR to a victim.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the “evil antisemitism” behind the attack. Police have arrested two gunmen, Sajid Akram, 50, and his son Naveed, 24, and are investigating a possible third. Homemade ISIS flags and improvised explosives were found in Naveed’s vehicle.
Among the victims were Rabbi Eli Schlanger, 41, 10-year-old Matilda, the youngest victim of the attack and Holocaust survivor Alexander Kleytman. The attack has sent shockwaves through the global community, with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu condemning the rise of antisemitism and King Charles III condemning the "dreadful antisemitic terrorist attack."
In response to the Bondi Beach attack, Australian PM Anthony Albanese proposed stricter gun laws, including limits on firearms and more frequent license reviews. Authorities are still investigating the ideologically motivated assault.
The Bondi Beach attack has led to heightened security in Jewish communities worldwide. In the UK, the Metropolitan Police are increasing patrols around synagogues during Hanukkah, while Police Scotland is enhancing protection through collaboration with community leaders.
The Hindu Council UK expressed solidarity with the Jewish community, condemning the Islamists responsible for the massacre. They emphasised the shared values between Hindus and Jews, highlighting their historical coexistence in India. The council also called on governments to address the root cause of Islamism rather than relying on security measures alone. They praised Ahmed Al-Ahmed for his heroic actions, distinguishing between Muslims and Islamists. The Hindu Council urged temples to light candles or diyas in solidarity with the Jewish community during Hanukkah, aligning with the spirit of both festivals.
Bondi Beach attackers have Indian connection
Three Indian students were among at least 40 injured in the terrorist attack at Sydney’s Bondi Beach during a Hanukkah celebration. Two of the students are receiving hospital treatment, though their condition remains undisclosed.
Authorities said the attack, which killed 15 people, was carried out by father-and-son duo Sajid Akram, 50, and Naveed Akram, 24, and was inspired by the Islamic State. Sajid Akram, originally from Hyderabad, India, held an Indian passport and had migrated to Australia in 1998 on a student visa. He had lived in Australia for nearly three decades, married locally, and had two Australian-born children. Police noted there was no evidence linking his radicalisation to India, citing limited family contact and estrangement from relatives. Sajid was killed during the attack, while Naveed remains hospitalized under police guard.
