MOGADISHU (AX) — A deadly attack on a Jewish Hanukkah celebration at Sydney’s Bondi Beach killed 15 people, including a child, prompting nationwide condemnation, heightened security and fears of backlash among Somali and other Muslim communities.
Police said a man and his son opened fire during the beachfront gathering late Sunday, targeting attendees in what authorities described as an antisemitic act of terrorism. The victims ranged in age from 10 to 87. Investigators said inquiries were ongoing and urged the public to remain calm amid tightened security.
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Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the violence as “an act of terrorism and antisemitism,” convened an emergency meeting of the national cabinet and said the government would accelerate plans to strengthen gun control laws. “We stand with Jewish Australians, and we stand firmly against hatred and violence,” Albanese said in a post on X. “Australia is stronger than those who seek to divide us.”
Fears within the Somali community
In the aftermath, Somali community leaders warned that visibly Muslim Australians could face increased harassment. Dr. Hussein Harakow, chairman of the Somali community in Australia and a resident of Melbourne, said Muslim women often bear the brunt after high-profile attacks.
“Women are the most affected because they are highly visible in public,” Harakow said. “Somali women are deeply committed to wearing the hijab, and after attacks like this, they are more likely to face insults or abuse.” He said conditions remain calm but noted rising anxiety about heavier policing around religious institutions.
Australian police have increased patrols around synagogues, mosques and other places of worship, calling the measures precautionary and aimed at reassurance as well as deterrence.
Shock in Sydney
Residents near Bondi Beach, one of Australia’s best-known tourist destinations, described the violence as jarring and deeply unsettling. “Bondi is one of the most famous beaches in Australia,” said Daadir Halane, a Sydney resident. “It’s a place visited by people from all over the world. No one expected something like this to happen here.” He said some locals have avoided work and crowded public spaces in recent days.
Muslim groups condemn violence
Muslim organizations across Australia issued swift condemnations and expressed solidarity with the Jewish community. The Australian National Imams Council called the attack an assault on all Australians, not only Jews, saying hatred, harassment and violence against the Jewish community have no place in society. The Australian Muslim Alliance urged that those responsible be fully held to account under the law.
Victims identified
Authorities and Jewish community groups identified several victims on Monday. Chabad said Rabbi Eli Schlanger, 41, a British-born assistant rabbi who helped organize the Hanukkah event, was among the dead, along with community member Reuven Morrison. Rabbi Yaakov Levitan, secretary of the Sydney Beth Din, was also killed. Chabad said Holocaust survivor Alex Kleytman died while attending the celebration with his children and grandchildren.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot confirmed that French citizen Dan Elkayam was among the dead. A 10-year-old girl identified only as Matilda was also killed; at her family’s request, authorities withheld her full name. Her teacher described her as joyful and energetic. Another victim, Peter Meagher, a former police officer, was working as a freelance photographer at the event, according to the Randwick Rugby Club.
Investigation continues
Police said investigators are still gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses. Officials urged residents to avoid spreading rumors and to report any information that could aid the inquiry. Security remains heightened nationwide, with further updates expected as more details emerge.
– With files from the BBC Somali Service
By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.
