BREAKING: An urgent investigation is underway following a terrorist attack at Bondi Beach that specifically targeted the Jewish community on the first day of Chanukah. Authorities have confirmed that 42 people were injured, with victims ranging from as young as 10 to 87 years old.
New South Wales (NSW) Premier Chris Minns condemned the violence as a “terrible, wanton act,” emphasizing the impact on what should have been a joyous celebration. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the assault as “an act of pure evil, an act of antisemitism,” and ordered flags to fly at half-mast across the nation in honor of the victims.
The incident was declared a terrorist act by NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon at 9:36 PM last night, setting in motion Operation Arques, a joint counter-terrorism investigation with federal agencies. Lanyon reported that two offenders were involved—a 50-year-old father and his 24-year-old son. The elder man has been confirmed deceased, while the younger man remains in critical but stable condition in the hospital.
Police conducted search warrants at two locations overnight, recovering six firearms and two improvised explosive devices (IEDs) that were rendered safe. Lanyon indicated the explosives were rudimentary in construction but posed a significant threat.
Emergency services responded swiftly, with NSW Ambulance receiving the initial call at 6:43 PM and arriving on the scene within 10 minutes. A total of 123 ambulance personnel participated in the response, transporting 24 patients to various hospitals. Tragically, 14 individuals were pronounced dead at the scene, with two more succumbing to injuries in hospitals.
In reaction to the attack, Lanyon initiated Operation Shelter to enhance visible policing in areas frequented by the Jewish community, deploying 328 officers. This operation aims to provide comfort and reassurance to a community in distress.
Premier Minns urged Australians to support the victims by donating blood, stating, “Hospitals need your help. They need blood.” Meanwhile, Albanese confirmed that the Australian Federal Police and ASIO are cooperating closely with NSW authorities, pledging all necessary resources for the investigation.
Both Minns and Lanyon have called for calm, urging the public to avoid seeking retribution during this painful time. “This is not a time for anyone to be seeking retribution. This is a time for community to grieve and to heal,” Lanyon stated.
As the investigation continues, authorities are focused on uncovering further details about the attack and ensuring safety within the affected community.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
