Gunmen Attack Hanukkah Celebration at Sydney's Bondi Beach, Killing 12
Just the facts

Gunmen Attack Hanukkah Celebration at Sydney's Bondi Beach, Killing 12

Summary

Two gunmen opened fire during a Hanukkah event at Bondi Beach in Sydney, resulting in 12 deaths, including one attacker, and 29 injuries. Authorities are treating the incident as a targeted antisemitic terrorist attack.

On December 14, 2025, a mass shooting occurred at a Hanukkah celebration on Sydney's Bondi Beach, resulting in 12 fatalities, including one of the attackers, and 29 injuries. The event, organized by the Jewish community, was attended by approximately 1,000 people.

The attack was carried out by two gunmen. One assailant was killed by police, while the other was captured in critical condition. Authorities confirmed the presence of improvised explosive devices in the suspects' vehicle and have declared the act an antisemitic terrorist attack.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the violence, describing it as "evil beyond comprehension." He emphasized the need for unity and resilience in the face of such attacks.

A bystander, identified as Ahmed el Ahmed, a 43-year-old father of two, is being hailed as a hero for tackling and disarming one of the gunmen during the attack. Ahmed sustained gunshot wounds to his arm and hand and is currently hospitalized. His courageous actions are credited with saving numerous lives.

This incident marks the deadliest shooting in Australia since 1996 and comes amid a surge in antisemitic incidents following global tensions involving Israel and Hamas.

Fact-checking

Fact-check the facts of the article using external sources and databases.

✓
Confirmed

On December 14, 2025, a mass shooting occurred at a Hanukkah celebration on Sydney's Bondi Beach, resulting in 12 fatalities, including one of the attackers, and 29 injuries.

✓
Confirmed

The attack was carried out by two gunmen. One assailant was killed by police, while the other was captured in critical condition.

✓
Confirmed

Authorities confirmed the presence of improvised explosive devices in the suspects' vehicle and have declared the act an antisemitic terrorist attack.

✓
Confirmed

A bystander, identified as Ahmed el Ahmed, a 43-year-old father of two, is being hailed as a hero for tackling and disarming one of the gunmen during the attack.

Keep reading — for free

Create a free account to follow the news. No card required.