World leaders voiced horror and condemnation after a mass shooting killed 16 people at Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach. The attack shocked Australia and prompted an outpouring of international solidarity as authorities investigated possible terrorism links.
New South Wales Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon confirmed that one suspected gunman was shot dead by police. Meanwhile, a second suspect remained in critical condition under police guard. At least 29 people sustained injuries, including two police officers wounded during the response. Emergency services transported the injured to multiple hospitals across Sydney.
Police continued to investigate whether a third gunman was involved. In addition, bomb-disposal units examined several suspected improvised explosive devices found near the scene. Authorities secured the area overnight as forensic teams worked to reconstruct the sequence of events.
Investigation and Security Response
Australian intelligence agencies joined the investigation shortly after the shooting. Mike Burgess, a senior intelligence official, said one suspected attacker was previously known to authorities. However, agencies had not classified the individual as an immediate threat before the attack.
Police described the incident as a terrorist attack, noting that the shooting targeted a gathering celebrating the Jewish festival of Hanukkah. As a result, security forces increased patrols at religious sites and public venues nationwide.
Pakistan Condemns the Attack
President Asif Ali Zardari expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and extended condolences to the victims’ families. In a statement on X, he said Pakistan understands the pain caused by such attacks, having suffered from terrorism itself. He condemned violence against civilians and reaffirmed Pakistan’s opposition to terrorism in all forms.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also conveyed condolences, describing the shooting as a terrorist attack. He said Pakistan stood in solidarity with the people and government of Australia during the difficult time.
Australian Leaders React
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the shooting as shocking and distressing. He said the attack was beyond comprehension and vowed that security agencies would identify anyone linked to the violence. Opposition leader Sussan Ley said Australians were in deep mourning. She noted that hateful violence struck the heart of Bondi, a place cherished by people across the country.
International Condemnation Grows
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said she was shocked by the shooting. She stated that Europe stood with Australia and Jewish communities everywhere against violence and antisemitism. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas also condemned the attack as an appalling act of violence.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the news deeply distressing and extended condolences on behalf of the United Kingdom. French President Emmanuel Macron condemned the attack and pledged to fight antisemitic hatred relentlessly.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed profound grief and reiterated Italy’s condemnation of violence and antisemitism. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul described the attack as an act of hatred against Jews worldwide.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Ukraine stood in solidarity with Australia. New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said the tragedy struck close to home, calling Australia family. An Australian Muslim organisation also condemned the horrific shooting.
