Gunmen Attack Hanukkah Celebration in Sydney, 15 Dead

A tragic shooting incident during a Hanukkah celebration on Bondi Beach in Sydney has left 15 people dead, including children and a Holocaust survivor. The attack occurred on the evening of December 10, 2023, as thousands gathered to mark the first day of Hanukkah. Eyewitnesses report chaos as two gunmen, identified as Naveed Akram, 24, and his 50-year-old father, began firing indiscriminately at the crowd.

The victims, ranging in age from 10 to 87, included community leaders, family members, and friends. New South Wales Premier Chris Minns described the incident as a targeted attack on Sydney’s Jewish community. The gunmen, armed with shotguns and a rifle, unleashed terror for approximately ten minutes before a local fruit seller, Ahmed al-Ahmed, intervened, tackling one of the assailants and disarming him. The father was killed by police, while the son was apprehended and is now hospitalized.

The aftermath of the shooting has left nearly 40 others wounded, with authorities fearing the death toll may rise as investigations continue. As the community mourns, tributes have begun to emerge for those lost in this horrific act of violence.

Remembering the Victims

Among the deceased is Alex Kleytman, a Holocaust survivor who had escaped the horrors of World War II. Kleytman, who was born in Ukraine, survived the brutality of the Holocaust and eventually sought refuge in Australia. Tragically, he was killed while shielding his wife, Larissa Kleytman, from the gunfire. In a heartbreaking account, Larissa recounted how her husband had pushed her to the ground for safety before he was shot. “I have no husband,” she lamented, reflecting on their 57 years of marriage.

Also among the victims is Rabbi Eli Schlanger, the assistant rabbi at Sydney’s Chabad of Bondi. Described as “joyful” and “vivacious,” Schlanger was a father of five who had recently welcomed a new baby into his family. His contributions to the Jewish community were deeply valued, and he is remembered fondly by those he served.

Another notable victim, Rabbi Yaakov Levitan, was known for his leadership within the community, holding various positions at different organizations. The loss of both Schlanger and Levitan has been felt profoundly within the Jewish community in Australia.

French national Dan Elkaymann was also killed in the attack. The French Foreign Minister, Jean-Noël Barrot, condemned the act of violence, calling it a “tragic manifestation of antisemitic hatred.” He affirmed France’s commitment to combating antisemitism globally, emphasizing that “the light of Hanukkah must not be extinguished.”

Community Response and Ongoing Investigation

In the wake of this event, the Jewish community in Sydney is grappling with grief and outrage. Many are calling for greater security measures during public celebrations and events. The Australian charity JewishCare has offered support services to those affected by the tragedy, recognizing the emotional toll such violence can inflict.

As law enforcement continues to investigate the shooting, they are urging witnesses to come forward with information. The attack has ignited discussions about safety for minority communities in Australia and the need for vigilance against rising hate crimes.

The impact of this horrific event will resonate throughout the community for years to come as survivors and families of the victims seek healing and justice. With the global Jewish community standing in solidarity, the remembrance of those lost will serve as a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight against hatred and violence.