The Prime Minister of New South Wales, Chris Minns, confirmed that at least 12 people, including the attacker, were killed in the attack on the Jewish community in Sydney.
It is allegedly a terrorist attack, targeted against the Jewish community, which is celebrating the first day of Hanukkah today, reports The Guardian.
“This cowardly act of appalling violence is shocking and painful to see and represents some of our greatest fears about terrorism in Sydney,” Minns said.
Testimonies from the scene
Young people on Bondi Beach were left paralyzed with shock. Olivia Mathis, who ran along the boardwalk, said:
– I heard the loudest sounds, I thought they were fireworks, but then I saw people curling up and someone shouted ‘run’. There were only shots, shots, shots. I ran to my apartment in North Bondi and hid,” Mathis said, adding that she thought she heard about 50 gunshots.
Political reactions and condemnations
NSW Liberal MP Julian Leeser called the attack a “horrible tragedy”:
– Sydney’s Jewish community is shaken. For Australians, tonight is a night of sadness and shock. We must come together, support our Jewish friends and offer comfort where it is needed – he said.
Former Prime Minister Tony Abbott condemned the attack as an “absolute crime”:
– There should be no place in Australia for the evil we saw tonight. I am grateful that a passer-by heroically intervened. I pray for everyone affected – said Abbott.
NSW Opposition Leader Kellie Sloane described the attack as “a terrible attack on our community and way of life”:
– No community in this country should live in fear. This is an attack on our common security and sense of belonging. Tonight, our community and country stand together, determined for light to overcome darkness – said Sloane.
Reactions of religious and humanitarian organizations
The Australian National Imams Council strongly condemned the attack and called on all citizens for unity and solidarity:
– Such acts of violence and crimes have no place in our society. Those responsible must be held fully accountable and face the full force of the law. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims, their families and everyone affected by this traumatic situation – the statement said.
Police urged citizens to rely exclusively on official sources of information while the investigation is ongoing.
(TYPE/Source: federalna.ba/Photo: X)
