Sixteen lives were tragically lost in a shooting attack at Sydney’s Bondi Beach, including a 12-year-old child, during a celebration for the Jewish festival of Hanukkah, known as Chanukah by the Sea. The incident has been classified as an act of terror.
Among the deceased is one of the shooters, identified as 24-year-old Naveed Akram, who was shot by police and is currently hospitalized under guard. His 50-year-old father, also involved in the attack, was killed during the confrontation with law enforcement. Authorities are investigating whether there was a third person involved, not directly firing a weapon.
In addition to the fatalities, 29 individuals, including two police officers, sustained injuries and were treated at hospitals across Sydney. New South Wales Premier Chris Minn reported that 42 people were admitted to hospitals overnight in response to the attack.
In a remarkable act of bravery, a civilian named Ahmed al Ahmed, a 43-year-old fruit shop owner and father of two, successfully disarmed one of the gunmen, earning widespread praise for his heroism.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the shooting, while Israeli President Isaac Herzog referred to the gunmen as “vile terrorists.” Flags will be flown at half-staff across Australia in honor of those who lost their lives. Premier Minn emphasized the importance of donating blood to support the efforts of hospitals and emergency services during this critical time.
As the nation mourns, officials have confirmed that the victims ranged in age from 10 to 87, highlighting the indiscriminate nature of this tragedy that has shaken the community and the country.
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