Bondi Beach, Sydney – The coastal suburb of Bondi has been rocked by a deadly terrorist attack targeting the local Jewish community on the first night of Hanukkah (or Chanukah). India Today’s Defence Editor, Shivani Sharma, provides updates on the horrific shooting that has left at least 12 people dead and 29 injured.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The attack, which occurred near Bondi Beach during a public Hanukkah celebration, was swiftly declared a terrorist incident by Australian authorities, including NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and NSW Premier Chris Minns confirmed the attack was explicitly motivated by antisemitism and targeted Jewish Australians.
Suspect Identified and Investigation Underway
Police have identified one of the alleged shooters as Naveed Akram, a 24-year-old local resident of Bonnyrigg, Sydney. His driving license was reportedly recovered at the scene. Authorities believe at least two gunmen carried out the massacre: one was killed by police, and another was shot, arrested, and is currently in critical condition. An investigation is underway to determine if a third person was involved.
Counter-terror units are currently raiding Akram’s residence in Bonnyrigg. The Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) has stated that one of the perpetrators was previously known to them. Furthermore, police reported finding a suspicious improvised explosive device (IED) in a vehicle linked to one of the suspects.
National Response
In response to the devastating violence, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the act as “an act of evil antisemitism, terrorism, that has struck the heart of our nation.” He immediately convened an emergency meeting of the Cabinet’s National Security Committee to coordinate the national response and enhance security measures across the country.
This incident marks the deadliest mass shooting in Australia since 1996. The nation is currently in shock and mourning as the investigation continues into this devastating act of hate.
