Highlights:
- 15 people were killed in a terror attack at Bondi Beach during Hanukkah
- Australian leaders agreed to strengthen gun laws nationwide
- Survivors described scenes of chaos and bodies everywhere
- A local man was hailed as a hero for disarming one gunman
- World leaders, including the Pope, condemned antisemitic violence
Australia is reeling from one of its deadliest terror attacks after two gunmen opened fire at a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach in Sydney. The attack killed 15 people, including a 10-year-old girl, a Holocaust survivor, and several community leaders. Survivors described horrifying scenes, saying that when the shooting stopped, there were bodies everywhere.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed that the attackers, identified as father and son Sajid and Naveed Akram, acted alone and were not part of a wider terror cell. However, investigators are still examining their possible links to extremist ideology. Reports from Australian media said items linked to the Islamic State group were found, though officials have urged caution as the investigation continues.
In response to the massacre, Albanese called an urgent meeting with state and territory leaders. After the meeting, leaders agreed to toughen gun laws across the country. The New South Wales Premier said the government is determined to introduce the strictest gun legislation Australia has seen, aiming to prevent such attacks in the future.
: An Israeli flag and flowers are laid outside Bondi Pavilion at Bondi Beach as people gather to mourn in the wake of a mass shooting on December 15, 2025 in Sydney, Australia. Getty Images
The attack has deeply shaken Australia’s Jewish community. Leaders in the United Kingdom also expressed concern, with Downing Street saying Jewish people are living in fear. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s office announced increased security at Hanukkah events across the UK.
One moment of courage stood out amid the tragedy. Ahmed al Ahmed, a 43-year-old Muslim father of two, tackled and disarmed one of the gunmen despite being shot multiple times. His actions likely saved many lives. Ahmed, who previously served in the police, is recovering in the hospital after surgery. Donations to support him and his family have passed one million Australian dollars, showing widespread public gratitude.
A vigil at Bondi Beach drew thousands of people, including former Prime Minister Scott Morrison, who called the attack a “desecration” of Australian values. Morrison warned that antisemitism had been allowed to grow unchecked and said the country must confront this hatred directly.
Religious and political leaders around the world also reacted strongly. Pope Leo XIV condemned the attack and urged an end to antisemitic violence, saying hatred must be removed from people’s hearts. China sent condolences to Australia, and the United States strongly condemned the attack as an act of terror.
As Sydney residents lined up to donate blood for the injured, community leaders emphasized unity and resilience. Local officials said that while fear and anger are natural, darkness will not prevail. Australia now faces the difficult task of healing, honoring the victims, and ensuring stronger protections so such violence is never repeated.
