Australian police say Bondi shooting inspired by Islamic State
Australian authorities have formally described the mass shooting at Sydney’s Bondi Beach that killed 15 people during a Hanukkah celebration as a terrorist attack inspired by the Islamic State group, underscoring the scale and gravity of one of the nation’s deadliest acts of violence in recent years.
Australia’s federal police commissioner, Krissy Barrett, made the statement on Tuesday, December 16, saying investigators now believe the attack was ideologically motivated. The confirmation came after days of intense scrutiny and growing public shock following Sunday’s massacre at one of Australia’s most iconic public spaces.
Police have identified the suspects as a father and son, aged 50 and 24. Authorities said the older man was shot dead at the scene, while his son was taken into custody and remains under treatment in hospital. Officials confirmed that the younger suspect is under heavy guard as investigators continue to piece together the events leading up to the attack.
At a joint news conference on Tuesday, senior political leaders and law enforcement officials revealed for the first time why they believe the shooting was linked to extremist ideology. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the conclusion was based on evidence gathered during the investigation, including the discovery of Islamic State flags inside a vehicle seized by police.
“These assessments are grounded in facts and evidence,” Albanese said, adding that authorities were being careful and thorough given the sensitivity of the case and the pain being felt across the country.
The human toll of the attack remains stark. Twenty-five people are still being treated in hospitals across Sydney, with 10 listed in critical condition. Three of the injured are children receiving care at a pediatric hospital. Doctors and nurses continue to work around the clock as families wait anxiously for updates.
Among the survivors is a man whose actions have drawn widespread attention. Video footage circulating online appears to show him tackling and disarming one of the assailants, briefly pointing the weapon back at the attacker before placing it safely on the ground. Officials have praised his courage, while urging the public not to speculate as investigations continue.
Those killed ranged in age from just 10 years old to 87, highlighting the indiscriminate nature of the violence. Families, friends, and members of Sydney’s Jewish community have gathered for vigils, laying flowers and lighting candles in memory of the victims who had come together to celebrate Hanukkah.
In the aftermath, Prime Minister Albanese announced plans to further tighten Australia’s gun laws. The move follows revelations that the older suspect had legally acquired six firearms, prompting renewed debate over access to weapons and public safety.
As Australia mourns, leaders have emphasized unity and resilience, pledging support for victims’ families and vowing to prevent such a tragedy from happening again.