Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued a firm condemnation of the horrific terrorist attack carried out at Sydney’s Bondi Beach, where a Jewish Hanukkah celebration was targeted in a mass shooting. Calling the incident “ghastly,” the Prime Minister said he was deeply shocked by the brutality of the assault and extended heartfelt condolences from the people of India to the families of those killed. He also expressed solidarity with Australia as it grapples with the tragedy.
Modi underscored India’s unwavering stance against terrorism, reiterating that the country maintains zero tolerance for any form or manifestation of terror and firmly supports global efforts to combat extremist violence.
Australian authorities confirmed that at least 12 people were killed when two gunmen opened fire on hundreds of attendees at the Chanukah by the Sea event on Sunday evening. One attacker was shot dead by police at the site, while the second was captured and remains in critical condition. New South Wales Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon reported that at least 29 people were injured, including two police officers, and warned that the final death toll could still rise as more victims reached hospitals.
“This attack was designed to target Sydney's Jewish community,” NSW Premier Chris Minns said, as police officially designated the massacre a terrorist incident, citing the nature of the gathering and the weapons used.
Hundreds had gathered along Campbell Parade just after sunset to mark the first night of Hanukkah when gunfire erupted at approximately 6:45 pm, triggering panic and a large-scale emergency response across the Bondi area.
