World leaders across Europe and beyond have strongly condemned a deadly terrorist attack targeting the Jewish community during a Hanukkah celebration at Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach, expressing solidarity with Australia and condolences to the victims’ families.

At least 12 people, including one of the attackers, were killed and 29 others injured when gunmen opened fire during the “Hanukkah by the Sea” event, according to Australian authorities. Among the injured were two police officers. New South Wales (NSW) Police have formally declared the incident a terrorist attack, while confirming that one gunman was killed at the scene and another wounded suspect has been taken into custody. Authorities later reported the discovery of suspected improvised explosive devices linked to the attackers, raising further alarm.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned the violence and rising antisemitism, expressing Italy’s solidarity with Australia and Jewish communities worldwide. “Italy condemns every form of violence and antisemitism and stands with the victims, their families, and the Jewish community,” she said in a post on X.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the incident as “deeply distressing,” offering condolences to those affected and confirming he was being kept updated on developments. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen echoed the sentiment, stating that Europe stands united with Australia against “violence, antisemitism and hatred.”

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said the scenes from Bondi Beach were shocking, noting the deep ties between Australians and New Zealanders. “Australia and New Zealand are closer than friends — we’re family,” he said, adding that his thoughts were with all those impacted.

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic also issued a strong condemnation, calling the shooting a horrific act of terrorism and reaffirming Serbia’s commitment to the safety and dignity of Jewish communities worldwide. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said he was “horrified” by the attack on families celebrating Hanukkah, describing it as a brutal act that struck at a festival symbolising peace and light.

European Parliament President Roberta Metsola said the images from Sydney were appalling, stressing that hatred would not extinguish the values celebrated during Hanukkah. Dutch Foreign Minister David van Weel similarly expressed solidarity with Australia, calling the attack ruthless and deeply disturbing.

Former Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott described the shooting as an “absolute atrocity” and a dangerous escalation of hatred against Australia’s Jewish community, while praising the bravery of bystanders who intervened during the chaos.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese convened a National Security Meeting following the attack, calling it a “devastating terrorist incident” and an act of “evil antisemitism.” “An attack on Jewish Australians is an attack on every Australian,” he said, vowing that authorities would take all necessary steps to ensure justice and strengthen security.

Officials have confirmed there is no longer an active threat, though the public has been urged to avoid the area as investigations continue. The attack has intensified global concerns over rising antisemitism and targeted violence, prompting renewed calls for international cooperation to counter extremism and protect vulnerable communities.