Australian media reported on Sunday that 12 people were killed in a shooting during Hanukkah celebrations in the popular Bondi Beach area near Sydney.
Initial reports indicated that 12 others were injured before authorities announced the death toll had risen to 12.
Immediately after the incident, Australian authorities launched a large-scale security operation in Sydney. New South Wales police announced the arrest of two people, confirming that the operation was ongoing and urging the public to stay away from the area to ensure their safety and allow emergency services to respond to the incident.
In a statement, the Israeli Ministry of Diaspora Affairs described the attack as a “bloody terrorist attack,” confirming that it was in contact with leaders of the Jewish community in Australia.
ABC News broadcast footage showing a firearm lying on the ground and police officers assisting victims, while videos circulating on the X platform showed people fleeing the scene amidst the sounds of gunfire and police sirens.
A spokesman for the Australian Prime Minister confirmed that the government was aware of the “deteriorating security situation” in Bondi, urging residents to exercise caution and rely on official information from the police.