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12 Killed in Australia Attack Near Sydney’s Bondi Beach

By The South Asia Times

SYDNEY - At least 12 people, including one of the attackers, have been killed in a shooting near a gathering at Sydney’s Bondi Beach, in what authorities have declared a terrorist incident, according to ABC News.

The attack unfolded on Sunday evening during a Hanukkah celebration, sending shockwaves across Australia and prompting a major security response.

Police say two gunmen opened fire near Campbell Parade at about 6:45pm on Sunday. One shooter was shot dead at the scene, while the second was taken into custody and remains in critical condition.

In addition to the fatalities, at least 29 people were injured, including two police officers. The wounded were transported to several hospitals across Sydney, with some reported to be in serious condition. Authorities have cautioned that casualty numbers may change as the operation continues.

NSW Premier Chris Minns calling it a “shocking and hateful act of violence.” NSW Police confirmed the incident has been formally declared a terrorist attack.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese convened an urgent national security meeting, describing the shooting as a “devastating terrorist incident” and reaffirming that there is “no place for hate, violence or terrorism in Australia.

” He confirmed the national terror threat level will remain at “probable,” meaning intelligence agencies assess there is a 50 per cent chance of further attacks.

Although police say there is no longer an active threat, the public has been urged to avoid the Bondi Beach area. A large exclusion zone remains in place as specialist officers examine a number of suspicious items found nearby.

A multi-agency police and emergency response is continuing, with an extensive crime scene established and investigations underway. Authorities have stressed there are no reports of other related incidents elsewhere in Sydney, but have reiterated calls for vigilance as the situation develops.