Daijiworld Media Network - Canberra

Canberra, Dec 14: At least 10 people, including one gunman, have died and 12 others were injured in a shooting near a Jewish gathering at Bondi Beach, Sydney, on Sunday evening, Australian authorities confirmed.

A second shooter, who was injured during the incident, has been taken into custody, as reported. Police have warned the public to stay away from the area due to an ongoing bomb threat, as officers work to disarm an improvised explosive device (IED).

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the events as “shocking and distressing” and urged residents to follow updates from New South Wales (NSW) police. “Police and emergency responders are on the ground working to save lives. My thoughts are with every person affected,” he said, adding that he has been in contact with the AFP Commissioner and the NSW Premier.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar condemned the attack as part of “an anti-Semitic rampage” in Australia over the past two years, criticizing the Australian government for allegedly failing to act on warning signs. “I’m appalled by the murderous shooting at a Hanukkah event in Sydney. The Australian government must come to its senses,” Sa’ar posted on X.

Robert Gregory, CEO of the Australian Jewish Association, also expressed outrage, calling the attack “entirely foreseeable” and questioning the safety of the Jewish community in Australia. “Many Jews are pondering whether they have a future here. Our thoughts are with those impacted,” he said.

Authorities continue to secure the area, investigate the incident, and provide updates on the threat and casualties.