Post by : Rameen Ariff

In a shocking attack at Sydney’s Bondi Beach, a father and son opened fire during a Jewish festival, killing at least 15 people and injuring dozens more, police confirmed. The attack, which occurred at the Chanukah by the Sea event, marks the deadliest shooting in Australia in nearly 30 years, despite the country’s strict gun laws.

Police identified the gunmen as 50-year-old Sajid Akram, who was fatally shot by officers at the scene, and his 24-year-old son, Naveed Akram, who was wounded and treated at a local hospital. Officials believe the duo is of Pakistani origin, with the son born in Australia and the father having arrived in the country on a student visa in 1998, later transitioning to a partner visa and permanent residency.

The violence erupted as thousands gathered at Bondi Beach to celebrate the eight-day Hanukkah festival. Witnesses described a chaotic scene, with shots fired for approximately ten minutes, forcing hundreds of attendees to flee across the sand and into nearby streets. Video footage showed two men in black shirts aiming long guns from a footbridge leading to the beach.

While the type of weapons has not been officially confirmed, video clips suggest that the shooters used a bolt-action rifle and a shotgun. In a dramatic moment, a local fruit shop owner, Ahmed al Ahmed, tackled one of the gunmen, disarming him before safely placing the weapon on the ground. Authorities and the public have hailed his bravery, with fundraising efforts for him exceeding A$200,000.

The attackers’ residence in Bonnyrigg, a suburb west of Sydney, was raided by police who secured the area. Authorities confirmed that one gunman was known to security services but emphasized that there was no indication of a pre-planned attack.

Victims ranged in age from 10 to 87, including Rabbi Eli Schlanger, assistant rabbi at Chabad of Bondi, who helped organize the event. At least 42 others were hospitalized, with several in critical condition. Community leaders and survivors expressed deep sorrow but vowed to remain united in the face of tragedy.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese visited Bondi Beach, laying flowers and pledging solidarity with the Jewish community. He described the attack as “an act of pure evil, antisemitism, and terrorism on our shores,” assuring that all efforts would be made to eradicate hate. Leaders from around the world, including US President Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, condemned the attack and extended support to Australia.

This shooting is the most serious antisemitic attack in Australia in decades, occurring amid a series of incidents linked to rising global tensions. The tragic event has sparked national and international outrage, highlighting the ongoing need for vigilance against acts of hatred and violence

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