MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) – A mass shooting in which 15 people were killed during a Hanukkah celebration at Sydney's Bondi Beach is believed to be “a terrorist attack inspired by Islamic State,” according to Australia’s federal police commissioner Krissy Barrett. The incident occurred during a festive gathering on Sunday, with the apparent assailants being a father and son duo, aged 50 and 24. The older suspect was shot dead, while the younger one is currently receiving medical treatment.
During a press conference on Tuesday, political leaders and law enforcement officials disclosed their suspicions regarding the suspects' motives. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese noted that evidence, including Islamic State flags found in a seized vehicle, contributed to this conclusion. There are still 25 individuals hospitalized, with 10 in critical condition, including three children.
Ahmed al Ahmed, a 42-year-old fruit shop owner, has garnered attention for his heroic actions during the attack, as he was captured on video disarming one of the gunmen before turning the weapon on them and laying it down. The victims of the shooting ranged in age from 10 to 87, attending a Hanukkah event when gunfire erupted.
Following the tragedy, calls for stricter gun laws have intensified. Albanese and state leaders have committed to tightening Australia's already stringent gun regulations, marking the most significant reforms since the 1996 Port Arthur massacre that claimed 35 lives. Since then, mass shootings in Australia had become exceptionally rare.
As public scrutiny grew concerning the attack, officials were questioned regarding how the suspects effectively planned and executed the deadly event, raising concerns about the safety of Jewish communities amid rising antisemitism. Albanese announced plans to further constrain access to firearms, particularly after learning that the elder suspect had legally acquired a collection of six weapons.
Investigators are delving into the suspects' recent trip to the Philippines, as they reportedly traveled there last month. The New South Wales Police Commissioner, Mal Lanyon, confirmed that the vehicle associated with the younger suspect contained improvised explosive devices, as well as homemade Islamic State flags. While militant groups in the southern Philippines have previously shown support for Islamic State, recent military offensives have significantly weakened such organizations.
Albanese visited Ahmed al Ahmed in the hospital, acknowledging him as a “true Australian hero” for his bravery during the attack. The Prime Minister emphasized national unity, stating that the values of bravery and togetherness define Australia and will prevail against such terroristic acts.
Furthermore, Bondi Beach lifeguards received praise for their actions during the shooting. Lifeguard Rory Davey conducted an ocean rescue while people were fleeing the scene, and Jackson Doolan made a swift dash towards Bondi from Tamarama beach, demonstrating the dedication to community safety amidst chaos.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, Israel’s Ambassador to Australia, Amir Maimon, expressed deep sorrow for the Jewish community, highlighting shared grief and solidarity. Thousands have visited Bondi Beach to pay tribute, leaving flowers at an impromptu memorial site.
In a show of national support, record numbers of Australians signed up to donate blood, with close to 50,000 appointments booked on Monday alone – more than double the previous record. This immense response reflected the unity and compassion of the Australian populace, as queues for donations stretched for hours at various Sydney locations.
As the investigation continues, the aftermath of this shocking attack emphasizes the need for solidarity, enhanced security measures, and a re-examination of policies pertaining to gun ownership in Australia.
