Sydney, Australia — On the evening of Sunday, December 14, 2025, a terrorist mass shooting struck Bondi Beach in Sydney, leaving at least 15 people dead and more than 40 wounded during a large Hanukkah celebration attended by hundreds of people. Authorities have declared the incident a terrorist attack targeting the Jewish community.

The shooting took place at Archer Park beside Bondi Beach just after 6:40 p.m. local time, when two gunmen opened fire on the crowd gathered for the Chanukah by the Sea event. Witnesses described chaotic scenes as dozens of shots rang out, forcing beachgoers to flee in panic and seek shelter in nearby restaurants, shops, and streets. Many victims were struck while attempting to escape the gunfire.

The attackers were identified as a father and son, aged 50 and 24, who reportedly used high-powered weapons to fire into the crowd. Police engaged the gunmen, fatally shooting the older suspect at the scene. The younger suspect was wounded by police and taken into custody in critical condition. Investigators later located and rendered safe improvised explosive devices found near the scene.

Among those killed were people of various ages, including a 10-year-old child, a rabbi, Holocaust survivors, and foreign nationals visiting Australia. More than 40 people were treated at hospitals, with injuries ranging from stable to critical. At least two police officers were also reported wounded.

The attack occurred during the first night of Hanukkah, a major Jewish festival, and was condemned by Australian leaders as an act of antisemitic terror. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called the massacre pure evil and urged national unity in the wake of the tragedy. Law enforcement authorities continue to investigate the motive and potential extremist links behind the shooting.

Local police have urged the public to avoid the Bondi area while the investigation and security operations remain active. The incident is now considered the deadliest mass shooting in Australia in nearly three decades and has sparked renewed debates over gun laws, public safety, and protections for vulnerable communities.