Sydney Terrorist Attack: 15 Killed in Australia's Bondi Beach Firing
A terrorist shooting during a Hanukkah event at Bondi Beach, killed 15 people and injured over 42. The attack has triggered global condemnation and high alerts in India
On the evening of 14 December 2025, a mass shooting took place at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, during a Jewish holiday event called “Hanukkah by the Sea.” Families, children, and visitors had gathered near the beachfront to celebrate when gunfire suddenly erupted from a nearby footpath above the crowd.
At first, some people believed the loud sounds were fireworks, but panic spread quickly as the shots continued. People ran in all directions, while others hid inside nearby shops and restaurants. Emergency services responded immediately, with police officers, ambulances, and helicopters arriving at the scene.
Videos recorded by witnesses showed people in bathing suits running from the water as gunshots rang out. Other footage showed two men wearing black shirts firing long guns from a footbridge leading to the beach.
Police confirmed that there were two attackers, a father and son. The father, 50-year-old Sajid Akram, was shot dead by police at the scene. His 24-year-old son, Naveed Akram, was seriously injured and taken to hospital. Around 50 shots were fired. Authorities reported that the attackers were of Pakistani origin and confirmed the attack was targeted at the Jewish community. The New South Wales Police Commission officially declared it a terrorist incident.
Fifteen people, including a 10-year-old girl, were killed, and more than 42 were injured. Explosive devices were later found in a car linked to the attackers and safely removed. Police deployed 328 officers to protect the Jewish community.
One man, Ahmed-al-Ahmed, showed bravery by tackling one attacker and disarming him. Leaders worldwide condemned the attack. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called it “shocking and distressing.” Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also condemned the attack. Following this, India issued a high alert in major cities.
