Pakistani man, son identified behind deadly shooting at Sydney beach
What's the story
The two suspected gunmen behind the deadly Hanukkah celebration attack at Sydney's Bondi Beach have been identified as a father-son duo, according to CBS News. US intelligence officials briefed on the investigation state the duo is likely of Pakistani origin. The 50-year-old father was shot dead by police during the incident, while his 24-year-old son is currently hospitalized in critical condition. New South Wales Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon confirmed this at a news conference on Sunday.
Evidence collection
Suspects' firearms and motives under investigation
Authorities have recovered six licensed firearms from the scene of the attack. The father had been a licensed gun owner for around 10 years and met all eligibility requirements for a recreational hunting license. Improvised explosive devices were also discovered in one of the suspects' vehicles. A picture of Akram's New South Wales driver's licence has also been shared widely on social media, in which he is wearing what resembles a Pakistani cricket shirt.
Casualties reported
Attack leaves 16 dead, 40 injured
Media reports state that the attack has left at least 16 people dead and more than 40 injured, including two police officers and three children. The victims were aged between 10 and 87. Speaking to reporters, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said, "What we saw yesterday was an act of pure evil, an act of antisemitism, an act of terrorism on our shores in an iconic Australian location."
International response
Global leaders express solidarity with Australia
World leaders, including US President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron, have expressed their condolences over the attack. Trump called it an "antisemitic attack, obviously," during a Christmas reception at the White House. The incident has also prompted increased security at Hanukkah events in major cities around the world, such as Berlin, London, and New York.
Ongoing investigation
Community calls for unity, investigation continues
Rabbi Mendel Kastel, whose brother-in-law Eli Schlanger was killed in Sunday's attack, called for community unity in the wake of this tragedy. Local woman Danielle described her panic and bodies strewn on the ground when she heard gunshots while picking up her daughter from a nearby bar mitzvah function center. The investigation is still underway, with police numbers increased in Jewish communities across Australia.
India's response
PM Modi condemns Bondi Beach attack
Late on Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the "ghastly terrorist attack" at Bondi Beach. "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," PM Modi wrote on X.
Twitter Post
PM Modi extends condolences to victims
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. On behalf of the people of India, I extend my sincere condolences to the families who lost their loved ones.…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 14, 2025