In a tragic start to Chanukah, two gunmen opened fire at a public menorah-lighting hosted by Chabad of Bondi at Sydney’s Bondi Beach, killing at least 15–16 people and injuring more than 40. One of the assailants was shot dead by police, while the other, identified as Naveed Akram, 24, was detained in critical condition. Authorities later confirmed that the shooters were a father and son, Sajid Akram, 50, and Naveed Akram. Several police officers were also injured during the incident.

Ahmed al Ahmed, a bystander, bravely tackled and disarmed one of the shooters but was shot in the process and hospitalized. Authorities have classified the attack as a terrorist incident motivated by antisemitism. Among the victims were a child and Rabbi Eli Schlanger, highlighting the indiscriminate nature of the violence.

In response, security has been heightened across Jewish communities nationwide. Australian officials are proposing tougher gun laws and stricter firearm regulations. Rabbis and community leaders have called for resilience and public observance, holding prayers from New York to Los Angeles and emphasizing Hanukkah’s enduring message of bringing light in the face of hatred.