Australian PM Condemns Bondi Hanukkah Attack: National Unity Urged Amid Global Solidarity

December 15, 2025
Australian PM Condemns Bondi Hanukkah Attack: National Unity Urged Amid Global Solidarity
  • Officials described the incident as an attack on Jewish people, prompting global condolences and visible gestures of solidarity, including the Knesset lighting up in Australian colors.

  • Among the victims was Marika Pogany, an 82-year-old Slovak volunteer who delivered kosher meals; Slovakia’s president acknowledged her death.

  • Rabbi Eli Schlanger, 41, of Chabad Bondi, and other rabbis were killed; Schlanger had served as a chaplain and leaves behind a wife and five children.

  • A bystander, Ahmed al-Ahmed, disarmed one attacker and is celebrated as a hero; he has undergone surgery and is receiving care after being wounded.

  • The attack occurred during a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach, killing at least 15 people and injuring dozens, marking Australia’s deadliest mass shooting in decades.

  • Timeline-based details recount how quickly the incident escalated, from gunfire to police arrival and subsequent casualty updates, highlighting bystander heroism.

  • The Australian prime minister condemned the Bondi Beach Hanukkah attack, calling for national unity as NSW leaders and international figures expressed condolences and support for the Jewish community.

  • International leaders and Jewish organizations underscored solidarity with Australia’s Jewish community and urged concerted action against terrorism and antisemitism.

  • A 12-year-old girl was among the victims, with the name withheld at publication; relatives described the family loss.

  • The attackers were Sajid Akram, 50, killed by police, and Naveed Akram, 24, who survived; Naveed had previously drawn security-service scrutiny.

  • Two Islamic State flags were found in the gunmen’s car, and investigators are examining possible ties to extremist networks and prior security-service contact.

  • Authorities are reviewing potential explosive devices in the attackers’ vehicle as part of ongoing inquiries and security assessments.

Summary based on 12 sources


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