The nation is in mourning after a horrific terror attack at Sydney's iconic Bondi Beach on Sunday night left at least sixteen people dead and dozens more injured. The shocking incident, which unfolded just after 6:40pm, involved two gunmen opening fire on crowds gathered for a Jewish community event, sending hundreds of terrified beachgoers fleeing for their lives.
Chaos on the Footbridge: The Attack Unfolds
Police were flooded with emergency calls reporting gunfire near the surf club. Disturbing footage from the scene showed two men dressed in black, firing what appeared to be shotguns from the top of the footbridge behind the club. The attackers targeted the "Chanukah by the Sea" celebration, turning an evening of festivity into a scene of carnage.
Emergency services raced to the scene as the sound of gunshots sparked panic. Fifteen people were killed at the scene, with one more victim succumbing to injuries in hospital later that night. Dozens of others were rushed to hospitals across Sydney, with many remaining in a critical condition, raising fears the death toll could still climb.
Alleged Gunmen Identified as Father and Son
Police have identified the alleged attackers as 50-year-old Sajid Akram and his 24-year-old son, Naveed Akram. During the attack, Sajid Akram was shot and killed. His son, Naveed, was critically injured and placed in a medically induced coma upon arrival at hospital.
In a significant development, Naveed Akram awoke from his coma on Tuesday night. Police are now waiting to question the 24-year-old about the atrocity. Investigations are also examining Naveed's online activity, where he reportedly preached Islamic teachings, and his potential links to an ISIS cell.
A Community in Mourning: Funerals Commence and Condemnation Follows
The first funerals for the victims of Australia's worst terror act in years began on Wednesday. Among those being laid to rest are British-born Rabbi Eli Schlanger, 41, and Rabbi Yaakov Levitan. The attack and subsequent police investigation tragically delayed burials, preventing the Jewish community from observing the customary practice of interment within 24 hours of death.
In a powerful act of condemnation, Muslim leaders in Sydney have refused to perform Islamic funeral rites for the deceased attacker, Sajid Akram. Prominent western Sydney cultural leader Dr Jamal Rifi stated, "We don't see them as inside the fold of Islam or as Muslims," distancing the community from the violent acts.
The attack has sent shockwaves through Australia, prompting an outpouring of grief and solidarity with the Jewish community. As the investigation continues and the injured fight for their lives, the nation grapples with the profound impact of violence on one of its most beloved public spaces.
