A deadly armed assault at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, has resulted in at least 10 fatalities and 13 injuries. Two individuals have been taken into custody following the attack, which unfolded during a celebration. Australian police confirmed reports of gunshots and casualties, initiating an ongoing operation and advising the public to avoid the area.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed profound shock and sadness over the incident, stating, “The scenes at Bondi are shocking and extremely distressing. Police and emergency services are on the ground, working to save lives.” The Australian opposition also conveyed deep concern over the high number of casualties. National broadcaster ABC and British Sky News reported more than ten people lost their lives.

Israeli President Yitzhak Herzog issued a statement asserting that the attack specifically targeted Jews celebrating the sacred festival of Hanukkah. President Herzog remarked, “Our sisters and brothers in Sydney, Jews going to light the first Hanukkah candle at Bondi Beach, were attacked by vile terrorists in an extremely brutal assault.” This framing highlights the alleged motive and the severity of the incident.

Images broadcast by ABC television showed what appeared to be a firearm on the ground and police officers assisting people at the scene. Videos circulating on social media platform X depicted individuals dispersing from Bondi Beach amidst a barrage of gunshots and police sirens. A spokesperson for Prime Minister Albanese urged people in the vicinity to follow information from the New South Wales Police.