Bondi Terror Attack Leaves Community in Mourning: A Heart-Wrenching Tragedy

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Jewish community groups have been joined by others in condemning a “dark moment” for Australia after 16 people, including a child, were killed in what NSW Police has declared a terrorist incident in Sydney.

At least 38 people were injured after hundreds of people had gathered for the Chanukah by the Sea event to celebrate the start of the Hannukah Jewish festival.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told reporters on Sunday night the attack was a “dark moment for our nation”.

“This is a targeted attack on Jewish Australians on the first day of Hanukkah, which should be a day of joy, a celebration of faith, an act of evil, antisemitism, terrorism that has struck the heart of our nation.”

“An attack on Jewish Australians is an attack on every Australian,” a spokesperson said, highlighting the shared grief following the incident. “Tonight, every one of us is deeply affected by this assault on our way of life.”

Antisemitism envoy Jillian Segal said in a statement: “This is not the Australia we know and it cannot be the Australia we accept.”

“An attack on a peaceful Jewish celebration is an attack on our national character and our way of life. Australia must defend both.”

Alex Ryvchin, co-CEO of peak Jewish group the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, told SBS Hebrew he was “feeling utter disbelief”.

“This is going to take a long time to grieve and to process as individuals and as a community, as a country. I think we’re permanently changed, and in what ways do we correct our course or do we descend into madness further?” Ryvchin said.

He said what had happened was a “horrible thing” and that the ECAJ would be “comforting the mourners and burying the dead” over the next few days.

“And doing what we can to move forward as a people, which we’ve done a million times, but it never gets easier,” he said.

The Australian National Imams Council — a peak Islamic group — and the Council of Imams NSW said in a statement the Australian Muslim community “unequivocally condemn the horrific shootings in Bondi”.

“These acts of violence and crimes have no place in our society. Those responsible must be held fully accountable and face the full force of the law.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims, their families, and all those who experienced or witnessed this harrowing event. We recognize the profound pain, fear, and distress within the community and offer our heartfelt compassion and support to everyone who is mourning.”

Three people stand outside at night, looking distressed, with coloured emergency lights reflecting on them.

Following the tragic mass shooting, members of the public gathered at Bondi Beach, a site that now bears witness to their collective sorrow. Credit: George Chan/Getty Images

The community leaders called on all Australians to “unite in compassion and solidarity” and to firmly reject any form of violence.

A police officer lifts crime-scene tape while walking between emergency vehicles illuminated by blue lights at night.

NSW Police have declared the Bondi Beach mass shooting a terrorist incident. Source: Getty / Darrian Traynor

Hass Dellal, chair of the Australian Multicultural Foundation, said the group’s thoughts were with the Jewish community and all those affected by “this appalling act”.

“We call on all community leaders, faith leaders, and Australians of goodwill to stand in solidarity with those impacted,” he said. “An attack on one community is an attack on all of us.”

Governor-General Sam Mostyn said Australians across the country were in shock and heartbroken.

“Australians have also witnessed extraordinary acts of heroism by so many today — brave members of the public, devoted first responders including police officers, emergency services personnel, ambulance officers and the dedicated hospital teams who are now providing care to those injured,” she said in a statement.

Readers seeking crisis support can ring Lifeline on 13 11 14 or text 0477 13 11 14, the Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467 and Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 (for young people aged up to 25). More information and support with mental health is available at beyondblue.org.au and on 1300 22 4636.

— With reporting by the Australian Associated Press.