Bondi Beach Shooting: 15 Killed, Suspect Charged with Terrorism
Full Transcript
The Bondi Beach shooting in Sydney, Australia, has left 15 people dead and multiple others injured during a Jewish celebration. Suspect Naveed Akram, 24, has been charged with 59 offenses, including 15 counts of murder and one count of committing a terrorist act, with authorities indicating that the attack may have been inspired by ISIS.
The shooting occurred at a Hanukkah event organized by Rabbi Eli Schlanger, who was among the victims, prompting a wave of grief within the Jewish community. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has faced criticism over the government's failure to address rising antisemitism and has promised to strengthen gun laws, as the attack raises serious questions about public safety and government response to hate crimes.
Funerals have begun for the victims, including a 10-year-old girl and an 87-year-old Holocaust survivor, with community members calling for a memorialization of those lost and a stand against the hatred that fueled the attack.
Eyewitness accounts highlight the bravery of individuals attempting to thwart the gunmen, drawing national attention to the heroism displayed amidst the tragedy.