A horrific antisemitic shooting occurred at Bondi Beach in Sydney, on the first night of Hanukkah, December 14, 2025. The traumatic shooting left at least 15 dead. The incident occurred at approximately 6:47 p.m. local time at Campbell Parade, where over 1,000 people had gathered to celebrate the festival. Eyewitnesses described horrific scenes as the two gunmen sprayed deadly fire into the throngs of families celebrating this important day, senselessly shattering what should have been a peaceful celebration.
The assailants have been identified by local media as Sajid Akram, 50, and Naveed Akram, 24. At the end of the shooting itself, Sajid Akram was killed by police after reportedly exchanging gunfire with officers. Naveed Akram has been apprehended and is reportedly in the custody of law enforcement officials while receiving treatment at a local hospital.
Authorities received reports of gunfire shortly before 7 p.m., resulting in a swift response from law enforcement to quell any potential threat. The police immediately set up a perimeter around the vicinity and warned everyone to shelter in place while they sorted out what had happened. At 7:14 p.m., officials confirmed their “operation” was ongoing, emphasizing the need for caution among those in the vicinity.
By 7:37 p.m., police announced via social media that two individuals were in custody. The horror of the event only started to unfold. The number of dead quickly climbed from an early report of nine victims to at least 15. The attack struck the Jewish community that it specifically targeted and struck the very innocent beachgoers, creating fear, panic, and insecurity.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese decried the attack, calling it “an act of pure evil.” His statement underscores a grave concern that the religious celebration would be the target of violence. It has brought up crucial conversations surrounding community safety and security.
As authorities classified the event as a terrorist incident at 9:36 p.m., questions arose regarding the motives behind such a violent act. Eyewitness accounts portray a picture of craziness and desperation while families rushed to escape as gunfire erupted.
