Horror at Bondi Beach: Terror Attack Shatters Hanukkah Celebration, Leaving 12 Dead in Antisemitic Massacre

Horror at Bondi Beach: On December 14, 2025, a terrorist attack occurred at Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach in Australia during a public Hanukkah celebration organized by Chabad of Bondi, marking the first night of the Jewish Festival of Lights. In this terror attack, at least 12 people were killed, including 11 civilians and one of the gunmen (shot dead by police or in the exchange).

Horror at Bondi Beach

The event, titled “Chanukah by the Sea,” attracted around 1,000-2,000 attendees, including families, for activities such as menorah lighting, music, food, and games near Archer Park and the Bondi Pavilion. At approximately 6:47 PM local time, two gunmen—described as wearing black clothing—emerged from a vehicle and opened fire on the crowd using long-barreled firearms (long arms).

Witnesses reported hearing dozens of shots (up to 50 in some accounts), with the attackers firing from an elevated position, such as a bridge or footbridge overlooking the area. Panic ensued as beachgoers fled into the water, nearby streets, shops, restaurants, and surf lifesaving clubs.

Videos captured people running for cover amid continuous gunfire. The attack was declared a terrorist incident by New South Wales Police, explicitly designed to target Sydney’s Jewish community on a significant holiday. Authorities, including NSW Premier Chris Minns and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, condemned it as an act of “evil antisemitism” and a profound tragedy.

Bondi Beach Casualties and Response:

At least 12 people were killed, including 11 civilians and one of the gunmen (shot dead by police or in the exchange). One notable victim was Rabbi Eli Schlanger, assistant rabbi at Chabad of Bondi. Approximately 29-30 people were injured, including two police officers; many were treated on-site or transported to hospitals.

The second gunman was critically injured and taken into custody. Police neutralized the threat quickly, with reports of a bystander heroically disarming one attacker. Improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were discovered in a vehicle on nearby Campbell Parade and safely removed by bomb squad units.

The incident has shocked Australia, with leaders expressing horror and unity against hate. Investigations are ongoing, led by counter-terrorism units, amid heightened concerns over rising antisemitism. Bondi Beach, a symbol of Australian summer leisure, was transformed into a scene of chaos on what should have been a joyful evening.