Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach became the scene of a horrific terrorist attack on Sunday, December 15, 2025, resulting in a devastating toll of 16 fatalities and 42 individuals hospitalized with injuries. The assault specifically targeted a Jewish community gathering during the first night of Hanukkah celebrations, with victims spanning generations from age 10 to 87.
New South Wales Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon identified the perpetrators as a father-son duo, aged 50 and 24 respectively. The older assailant was killed during the incident while his son remains under medical care in hospital. Authorities confirmed the deceased gunman held a valid firearms license for a decade, with all six registered weapons in his possession accounted for.
The violent confrontation resulted in two police officers sustaining critical injuries during an exchange of gunfire with the attackers. Both officers are currently reported in stable but serious condition.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese vehemently condemned what he described as ‘an act of pure evil,’ vowing to dedicate all necessary resources to combat anti-Semitism. In a national gesture of mourning, flags across Australia flew at half-mast on Monday to honor the victims.
The Chinese Consulate-General in Sydney confirmed no Chinese nationals were among the casualties and continues to monitor developments closely. This tragedy marks Australia’s deadliest mass shooting since the 1996 Port Arthur massacre, which prompted comprehensive firearms reform legislation. Prime Minister Albanese indicated potential legislative responses pending investigation outcomes.