What is known so far about the shooting at Bondi Beach in Australia?

This Sunday, Bondi Beach was the epicenter of a tragic attack, where 11 people lost their lives, including one of the two gunmen, and another is currently in custody. The event is described by police as a terrorist incident, which targeted the Jewish community.

Summary of the event and victims

Authorities say a child is among 29 people injured, some of them seriously, including two police officers. The shooting took place at a Hanukkah event in Bondi Beach Park, where witnesses reported seeing “bodies lying on the ground.” BBC Verify has verified footage of seven bodies lying at the scene.

Further threats and reactions of the authorities

In connection with the incident, police found improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in a vehicle associated with one of the gunmen. They have left the scene to search for possible remnants of other threats. Police are also investigating whether a third gunman may have been involved in the attack.

Political and international reactions

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called the attack a “manifestation of vile anti-Semitism and terrorism” that struck “the heart of our nation.” Israeli President Isaac Herzog condemned the attack as a “very cruel attack on Jews.” In a message of solidarity, Britain’s Labour Party leader Keir Starmer expressed strong support for Australia, saying “the United Kingdom will always stand with Australia.”