Bondi Beach Shooting Declared Terror Attack as Police Confirm 12 Dead in Sydney

At least 12 people died in the Bondi Beach shooting in Sydney on Friday. Police said the attack took place during a Hanukkah event near the busy waterfront. Emergency teams reached the scene within minutes. Two suspects were identified. One died at the scene and the other is in critical condition.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the attack was a “devastating terrorist incident.” He said the shooting targeted Jewish Australians on the first day of Hanukkah. According to Reuters, police are checking if a third attacker was involved. Hospitals across Sydney are treating 29 injured people, including two police officers.

Bondi Beach Shooting Prompts National Security Response

Police said the Bondi Beach shooting was fast and violent. Officers reported heavy gunfire when they arrived. They confirmed that the first suspect was shot dead. The second suspect was taken into custody and later moved to a hospital.

Authorities increased patrols around Sydney after the attack. They also raised the national terror alert. According to AP News, police are working with federal agencies to study the suspects’ backgrounds. Early checks suggest the attack was planned.

The beach area was placed under lockdown for several hours. Roads were blocked and crowds were evacuated. Many people were in the area for evening events and weekend activities. Police said this made the situation even more dangerous.

Global Reaction and Impact on Australia’s Security Policies

World leaders expressed shock after news of the Bondi Beach shooting spread. India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the attack and said India stands against all forms of terrorism. Leaders from Europe and the United States also responded with support.

Security experts said the attack may change Australia’s national security strategy. They expect more checks at public events and Jewish community centers. They also predict stronger laws against extremist activity. Analysts told Reuters that Australia has seen rising concerns about hate crimes in recent years.

The community around Bondi Beach held small gatherings overnight. Many people lit candles for the victims. Police urged people to stay away from the crime scene until further notice.

The Bondi Beach shooting has left Australia shaken. The attack raised fears of more targeted violence and sparked a major security review. The investigation continues as police search for answers and confirm if others were involved in the Bondi Beach shooting.

A quick knowledge drop for you-

Q1: What is known about the Bondi Beach shooting so far?

Police say 12 people died and 29 were injured. Two suspects were found, one dead and one in critical condition. The event took place during a Hanukkah gathering.

Q2: Why did officials call it a terror attack?

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the attack targeted Jewish Australians. He described it as an act of terrorism with antisemitic motives.

Q3: How many people were injured?

Authorities confirmed 29 injured people. Two of them are police officers. All were taken to hospitals across Sydney.

Q4: Did police confirm more suspects?

Police are checking for a possible third suspect. They said the investigation is active and ongoing. No confirmation has been made yet.

Q5: How did world leaders react?

Leaders from India, Europe, and the U.S. condemned the attack. Many expressed support for Australia. They also warned against rising global extremism.