SYDNEY — At least 10 people, including a Chabad emissary, were killed on Sunday after gunmen opened fire at a Jewish religious event celebrating the first night of Hanukkah at Bondi Beach in , authorities and community sources said.
The attack occurred during a public Hanukkah gathering organized by the Chabad community near the popular beachfront area, drawing families and worshippers marking the start of the Jewish festival. Among those killed was Rabbi Eli Schlanger, identified by community members as a Chabad emissary.
Police said the assailants were shot dead at the scene following a rapid response by security forces. No arrests were reported, and authorities said there was no ongoing threat to the public.
Emergency services cordoned off the area as ambulances and police units responded to scenes of chaos and panic. Several people were treated for injuries, though officials have not yet released a confirmed number of wounded.
Australian authorities said investigations were ongoing to establish the motive for the attack, including whether it was religiously or ideologically motivated. The incident has prompted heightened security around Jewish institutions and public gatherings.
Leaders from across Australia condemned the attack, describing it as a shocking act of violence against a peaceful religious celebration. Representatives of the community expressed grief and called for calm as they mourned the victims.
Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a major Jewish holiday commemorating religious freedom and resilience. The attack at the Bondi Beach event marks one of the deadliest incidents of violence at a religious gathering in Australia in recent years.
Police said further updates would be provided as the investigation continues.
