Prince Albert II has sent a message of condolence to Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese following the terrorist attack at Bondi Beach in Sydney on the first night of Hanukkah.
“It is with deep emotion that I learnt of the tragic antisemitic terrorist attack at Bondi Beach in Sydney during a Hanukkah celebration,” the Prince wrote in an official dispatch. “Our thoughts are with the grieving families of the victims of this unspeakable act of violence.”
The attack occurred on the evening of the Hanukkah celebration, with more than 1,000 people in attendance at the beachside event. Two gunmen opened fire on the gathering, killing 11 people and sending 29 to hospital, including a child.
Speaking on behalf of Monaco, Prince Albert added: “On behalf of the People of Monaco, my Family and myself, allow us to express our feelings of deep pain and sorrow. Please be assured, Mister Prime Minister, of our utmost solidarity and deepest condolences to all those affected.”
The attack
Police responded to reports of gunfire at Bondi Beach at approximately 18:47 local time. The gunmen targeted the Jewish community celebration from a small footbridge between Campbell Parade and Archer Park.
Verified video footage shows two attackers directing sustained fire towards the event for several minutes. One gunman was killed by police, whilst the second suspect remains in critical condition after being shot. In one verified video, a bystander is shown wrestling a gun from one of the attackers before police arrived.
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New South Wales Police have confirmed they are treating the incident as a terror attack designed to target Sydney’s Jewish community.
Australian response
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns described the attack as “more shocking” given that mass shootings are rare in Australia.
The Australian National Imams Council and the Council of Imams NSW issued a joint statement unequivocally condemning the attack. “These acts of violence and crimes have no place in our society,” they said. “Those responsible must be held fully accountable and face the full force of the law.”
The statement added: “This is a moment for all Australians, including the Australian Muslim community, to stand together in unity, compassion, and solidarity, rejecting violence in all its forms.”
The attack marks one of the deadliest incidents of violence targeting the Jewish community in Australia’s recent history.
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Photo: screenshot of social media video taken during the attack