A shooting incident at Bondi Beach in Australia has been classified as a terrorist attack, resulting in the tragic loss of 12 lives. New South Wales Police, in a press briefing, indicated that the assault was now considered a terrorist act aimed at the Jewish community.
Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon stated, “At 9:36 pm tonight, I have officially designated this as a terrorist event. Special powers under sections five and six have been authorized to prevent any potential further threats, including the investigation of a potential third perpetrator.”
Witnesses reported hearing individuals shouting ‘Allahu Akbar’ during the harrowing shooting. A total of 29 individuals, including two officers and a child, have been transported to hospitals for treatment.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, addressing a press conference in Canberra, condemned the Bondi Beach incident as “an act of evil, antisemitism, terrorism.” He emphasized that the attack, occurring on the first day of Hanukkah, targeted Jewish Australians, tarnishing what should have been a day of celebration and faith.
Albanese asserted, “There is no room for such hate, violence, and terrorism in our society. We are committed to eradicating it completely. This vile act will unite Australians, showcasing solidarity with our Jewish compatriots during this dark period. Our law enforcement and security agencies are actively pursuing all connections to this atrocity.”
A high-ranking law enforcement source disclosed that one of the Bondi Beach assailants was identified as Naveed Akram from Bonnyrigg in Sydney’s south-west. Akram is currently in police custody, with his residence under police investigation. The identity of the second gunman remains unconfirmed.
Footage from the Bondi Beach incident depicted a courageous bystander disarming one of the attackers. The bystander, clad in a white shirt, bravely intervened, successfully wresting the firearm from the assailant and preventing further harm.
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