People and emergency workers gather at location where a holiday event was taking place and then shooting was reported (AP photo)
NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered condolences to Australia after a mass shooting at Sydney’s Bondi beach left 11 dead and multiple injured.”Strongly condemn the ghastly terrorist attack carried out today at Bondi Beach, Australia, targeting people celebrating the first day of the Jewish festival of Hanukkah,” he said.Further speaking out against terrorism he added, “On behalf of the people of India, I extend my sincere condolences to the families who lost their loved ones. We stand in solidarity with the people of Australia in this hour of grief. India has zero tolerance towards terrorism and supports the fight against all forms and manifestations of terrorism.” External affairs minister S Jaishankar also condemned the attack saying, “Condemn in the strongest terms the terror attack on Hanukkah celebrations in Bondi beach, Australia. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families.” At least 11 people were killed and 16 others were hospitalized following a shooting at Sydney’s popular Bondi Beach, officials said. Police responded quickly to the unfolding incident and urged the public to stay clear of the area. The attack has been declared a terrorist incident, New South Wales Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon confirmed at a press conference on Sunday. Australia’s national broadcaster ABC reported that one of the gunmen was also killed, while the other was arrested but is in critical condition.This comes as an event marking the first day of the Jewish festival of Hanukkah was scheduled at Bondi Beach, according to a digital flyer for “Chanuka by the Sea 2025,” cited by NBC News. The flyer indicated that the gathering was set to take place near the beach’s children’s playground from 5.00 pm local time on Sunday. Organized by the Jewish centre Chabad of Bondi, the event had advertised live entertainment, music, games, and activities for all ages.
