Sydney's iconic Bondi Beach was shaken by gunfire on Sunday during a Hanukkah celebration, organized by the Jewish community. Thousands gathered for the festival when sudden gunshots spread panic across the area.
Early reports confirm at least 10 fatalities in the mass shooting, with several others critically injured. Police have apprehended two shooters involved in the assault.
A shocking video of the incident has surfaced, revealing the terrifying sequence of events. The footage, quickly going viral on social media, captures the crucial moments before police intervention.
A Hero Emerges Amidst Panic, Captured on Video
The video shows a shooter in a black T-shirt firing openly near vehicles, triggering chaos as people scurry for safety. Suddenly, a man in a white T-shirt courageously approaches the distracted shooter.
Seizing the moment, he lunges at the assailant from behind, attempting to subdue him. A brief struggle ensues, with the man wresting the gun from the shooter and aiming it back at him, forcing the attacker to retreat. However, a second shooter emerges, continuing the gunfire from another angle.
Approximately 2,000 Attendees at Event
According to eyewitnesses, the event held by Chabad attracted around 2,000 individuals for candle lighting and religious rites. At approximately 6:45 PM local time, two armed assailants began firing into the crowd, prompting widespread panic as hundreds fled in terror.
Australian PM Expresses Sorrow
The Prime Minister of Australia expressed profound sorrow, describing the Bondi Beach scenes as shocking and painful. He remains in contact with the Australian Federal Police Commissioner and the New South Wales Premier, continuously monitoring the situation. The Prime Minister emphasized the priority of saving lives and fully controlling the situation.
Naftali Bennett Condemns the Attack
Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett and senior officials from Israel's Foreign Ministry also condemned the incident. They labeled it an assault on the Jewish community, voicing concern over rising anti-Semitic incidents in Australia, and demanded assurance of the Jewish community's safety.
The police continue to investigate the motive behind the assault. It remains uncertain whether the attack was terror-driven or due to different reasons. Authorities promise to disclose official casualty figures and further information about the attackers as the investigation progresses.
The event shook the Sydney community deeply, shedding light on the urgent need for safety and unity.
