Thousands gathered at Sydney's iconic Bondi Beach on Thursday for a solemn paddle-out ceremony, honouring the victims of the December 14 terror attack that claimed 15 lives during a Hanukkah celebration.
The tribute, held near Archer Park—the site of the shooting—saw hundreds of surfers and locals paddle into the water in silence, forming a circle to remember those killed and injured in Australia's deadliest terrorist incident.
The attack, declared an act of terrorism inspired by Islamic State ideology, targeted the "Chanukah by the Sea" event organised by the Chabad community. Gunmen Naveed Akram, 24, and his father, Sajid Akram, opened fire from a nearby footbridge, killing 15 people—including a 10-year-old girl named Matilda and Holocaust survivor Alex Kleytman—and injuring dozens more.
Funerals continued across Sydney on Thursday, following emotional services earlier in the week for several victims, including young Matilda, Melbourne businessman Reuven Morrison, and Alex Kleytman. More services are planned as the community grapples with profound grief.
Sixteen patients remain hospitalised, with four in critical condition. Bystander hero Ahmed al Ahmed—who courageously disarmed one of the gunmen despite being shot multiple times—is recovering and expected to undergo further surgery.
NSW Police confirmed seven men arrested in Sydney's south-west on Thursday have alleged links to extremist Islamic ideology. Investigators are assessing any broader threats amid heightened security alerts.
Islamic State has claimed the attack as a "source of pride" via its propaganda channels, intensifying calls to combat online extremism and hate speech.
In response, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced new measures to strengthen hate speech laws and target antisemitism. Opposition Leader Sussan Ley has proposed additional Coalition policies to address rising anti-Jewish sentiment.
On Wednesday, surviving gunman Naveed Akram was charged with 59 offences, including 15 counts of murder and one count of committing a terrorist act. His father, Sajid Akram—a licensed firearm owner—was fatally shot by police at the scene.
As Sydney mourns, community vigils and memorials underscore resilience in the face of this tragic act of antisemitic violence.
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