Approximately 11 people have died and a large number have been injured in a shooting attack targeting a religious festival of the Jewish community held at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia. According to New South Wales Police, the attack targeted over a thousand people gathered on the beach on Sunday evening to celebrate the "Hanukkah" festival, and authorities have now labeled it a terrorist act.
Police confirm that the shooting was carried out by two gunmen, one of whom was killed on the spot by police gunfire, while the other suspect has been hospitalized with serious injuries. Eyewitnesses described how they ran for their lives with their children as the attack began,and it is reported that among the injured are a small child and two police officers. Hospital sources state that approximately 29 injured individuals have been hospitalized, with several in serious condition.
During operations conducted by security forces, several improvised explosive devices believed to belong to the suspects were found in a vehicle. Police stated that bomb disposal units immediately took action to safely neutralize these devices. This attack is suspected to be based on anti-Semitic sentiments, and an assistant rabbi belonging to the Bondi community has now been identified among the deceased.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the incident, stating it was a "vile anti-Semitic terrorist attack" on the nation's heart. New South Wales Premier Chris Minns pointed out that such public shootings are extremely rare in Australia, making this incident even more shocking. According to security forces, while the immediate threat has passed, a comprehensive investigation and forensic examinations into the incident are currently underway.
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