Bondi Beach shooting “hero” Ahmed al Ahmed receives GoFundMe cheque from social media influencer Zachery Dereniowski on December 18, 2025. — Instagram@mdmotivator
SYDNEY: A man credited with saving lives during a mass shooting at Bondi Beach received a donation of over A$2.5 million ($1.65 million) on Friday, thanks to tens of thousands of people contributing through a fundraising website.
Ahmed al Ahmed hid behind parked cars before charging at one of the gunmen from behind, grabbing his weapon and knocking him down. Ahmed was shot during the incident, apparently by a second attacker, and remains hospitalized after surgery.
The Muslim father of two was presented with a large check at his hospital bed at St George Hospital by Zachery Dereniowski, a social media influencer and co-organizer of the crowdfunding campaign, as videos posted online show.
More than 43,000 people globally contributed, including billionaire hedge fund manager Bill Ackman, who donated A$99,999 and promoted the fundraiser on his X account. Australia’s prime minister and the state premier visited Ahmed in the hospital to commend his bravery.
Upon receiving the check, Ahmed asked, “Do I really deserve this?” Dereniowski replied, “Every penny,” according to the videos.
When asked what he would say to those who donated, Ahmed responded: “To stand with each other, as human beings. To forget all the negativity… and to keep saving lives.”
“When I helped people, I did it from the heart because it was a beautiful day. Everyone was enjoying, celebrating with their children, women, men, teenagers — everyone was happy. They deserve that happiness,” Ahmed said, raising his uninjured fist.
“This country is the best in the world, but we can’t just watch anymore — enough is enough. God bless Australia. Australia, Australia, Australia.” The store owner has not disclosed plans for the money.
Ahmed, 43, left his hometown in Idlib, Syria, nearly 20 years ago to find work in Australia.
On Sunday, as many as 15 people were killed and dozens wounded when two gunmen opened fire during Hanukkah celebrations at the renowned beach. Authorities allege that a 50-year-old man, who was shot and killed by police, along with his 24-year-old son, who was critically injured, carried out the attack.
The community gathered at Bondi Beach to hold a vigil and paddle-out in memory of the 15 victims. Meanwhile, police detained seven men in separate incidents, and officials indicated the shooting may have been inspired by Daesh.
In the wake of the attack, Australia plans to implement a nationwide gun buyback program, similar to the one introduced after the 1996 Port Arthur massacre, which resulted in some of the strictest firearm laws globally. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized the need to remove more guns from Australian streets, citing the recent violence where two gunmen opened fire during Hanukkah celebrations, killing 15 and injuring many others. The gunman, a 50-year-old with a license and six registered weapons, was killed at the scene. It’s estimated that around four million firearms are currently in circulation across the country. The government intends to target surplus, newly prohibited, and illegal firearms, sharing costs with state authorities.
Australia had previously carried out a gun buyback, seizing approximately 640,000 prohibited firearms with a compensation payout of about A$304 million ($201 million). Neighboring New Zealand also enacted comprehensive gun reforms, including buyback schemes, following the Christchurch terror attack in 2019.
Prime Minister Albanese responded to rising antisemitism with measures to strengthen hate crime legislation. The government condemned antisemitic acts over the past two years, expelled the Iranian ambassador amid accusations of Tehran’s involvement in arson attacks, and indicated future efforts to bolster hate laws.
Authorities have suggested that Thursday’s police actions, which intercepted two vehicles and detained seven men in Sydney’s southwest, were connected by potential ideological similarities rather than confirmed links to Bondi’s shooters. The police continue to monitor these individuals while assessing the threats they may pose.
Daesh has praised the Bondi shooting as a “source of pride” on their Telegram channel, without explicitly claiming responsibility. Additional security has been deployed around Sydney’s Lakemba mosque, one of the largest in Australia, ahead of Friday prayers.
In solidarity, Australia’s Jewish community held prayers at Bondi Beach, and hundreds of swimmers and surfers formed a large circle in the water to honor the victims. Community leaders described the support as deeply moving amidst intensified fears of a rise in antisemitic incidents. Rabbi Yosef Eichenblatt from Sydney’s Central Synagogue expressed that the outpouring of love and support has been incredibly comforting and therapeutic amid the ongoing challenges faced by the community.
A poster of 10-year-old Matilda, who was killed in the December 14 Bondi Beach shooting, is displayed on the gate of Bondi Pavilion in Sydney on December 18, 2025 — AFP
– Prime Minister focuses on targeting extremist preachers and hate-related visas.
– Plans are underway to identify organizations associated with hate speech.
– Serious racial vilification will soon be classified as a federal offense.
Sydney, Australia — The country’s leader pledged Thursday to eradicate extremism as the nation mourned the loss of its youngest victim in the Bondi Beach incident, a girl remembered as “our little sunshine.”
Two gunmen, father and son, are accused of opening fire into crowds during a Jewish festival by the beach on Sunday evening, killing 15 people. Authorities have linked the attack to “Daesh ideology.”
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese assured the public of a comprehensive effort to remove “the evil of antisemitism from our society,” emphasizing that more proactive measures are needed.
“Australians are in shock and outraged. I share that anger. There’s a clear need for us to do more,” he told reporters.
New authorities will be empowered to scrutinize extremist preachers and to deny or revoke visas for individuals spreading hate or creating divisions.
The government also plans to establish a system for listing organizations led by hate speech perpetrators, with “serious vilification” based on race set to become a federal criminal offense.
As the Prime Minister spoke, mourners gathered for the funeral of Matilda, the youngest victim of the attack.
“Matilda was our little ray of sunshine,” said the rabbi conducting her service, reading a message from her school.
“She was genuinely the kindest, most caring, and compassionate young girl, lighting up everyone’s day with her bright smile and contagious laugh.”
Clad in black, mourners carried lilies as they entered the funeral service at Sydney’s Chevra Kadisha, a Jewish organization responsible for traditional burials. Some held balloons decorated with images of bumblebees, a nod to Matilda’s nickname, “Matilda Bee.”
Photos taken before the shooting showed her petting animals at a zoo and smiling after having her face painted.
Matilda’s family — who have requested media refrain from publishing their last name — emigrated from Ukraine to Australia prior to Russia’s invasion.
“I never imagined I would lose my daughter here. It’s a nightmare,” her mother Valentyna told reporters before the funeral.
“It’s all here — in my head and in my heart. I just can’t shake it,” she added, pointing to her mind and chest.
Her father, Michael, said they chose her name to honor Australia, where the beloved folk song “Waltzing Matilda” is considered an unofficial national anthem.
“We moved here from Ukraine, and Matilda was our first child born in Australia,” he explained earlier in the week.
“And I believed that Matilda is the most Australian name there is. Remember her name.”
## Extremist Ideology
Sajid Akram and his son Naveed are accused of carrying out an antisemitic attack during a Hanukkah celebration, firing into the crowd.
Father Sajid, 50, was killed during a confrontation with police, while 24-year-old Naveed survived.
Naveed, reportedly unemployed and working as a bricklayer, faces 15 counts of murder, terrorism charges, and multiple other serious crimes.
Investigators believe both men were radicalized by “Daesh ideology.”
Authorities are examining whether they met with extremists during a trip to the Philippines weeks before the attack.
The Philippines announced Wednesday there’s no evidence of the country being used for terrorist training.
Questions are being raised about whether Australian authorities could have intervened earlier to prevent the shootings.
Naveed had come under intelligence scrutiny in 2019 but was not considered an immediate threat at that time.
The attack has also reignited concerns that Australia has been slow to address rising antisemitism.
“Today is a very critical moment,” said Jillian Segal, the government’s antisemitism envoy, on Thursday. “Not just for our community but in the effort to combat antisemitism worldwide.”
Meanwhile, Australia is working to strengthen gun laws that previously allowed Sajid Akram to own six firearms.
The bombing at Bondi Beach marks the deadliest mass shooting since the 1996 Port Arthur massacre, which resulted in 35 deaths and led to comprehensive gun law reforms.
Despite these changes, recent years have seen a steady increase in privately owned firearms in the country.
Alleged Bondi Beach shooter Naveed Akram can be seen in this undated image. — Facebook
Facts disprove coordinated Indian misinformation campaign.
Sajid Akram migrated to Australia from India in 1998: reports.
Naveed Akram is confirmed to be an Australian citizen by birth.
The shooting at Bondi Beach has revealed false claims spread by certain Indian media outlets and social media accounts that tried to connect the attackers to Pakistan. These allegations crumbled after credible information was published by international news sources.
Immediately following the incident, several Indian media outlets and social media users pointed fingers at Pakistan without proper verification, launching a coordinated smear campaign that contradicted verified details.
According to reports from India’s The Hindu published on Tuesday, the suspect shot and killed by police during Sunday’s attack was Sajid Akram, aged 50, originally from Hyderabad in Telangana state, India. The report states that Akram moved to Australia in 1998.
Australian media identified the other suspect as Akram’s 24-year-old son, Naveed Akram, who was shot by police during the event and later recovered from a coma. It has been confirmed that Naveed is an Australian citizen by birth.
Right after the attack, Indian journalist Arnab Goswami and numerous social media users claimed that the suspects had ties to Pakistan.
Social media posts on X made unsubstantiated claims that Naveed Akram was of Pakistani descent and had studied in Islamabad.
One post claimed: “This is the terrorist training camp in Kotli… where the Bondi Beach attackers trained,” while another accused the suspects of traveling to Pakistan multiple times.
Meanwhile, Australian authorities announced on Wednesday that they had charged a man with 59 offenses, including terrorism charges, related to firing on a Jewish event at Sydney’s Bondi Beach.
A man strolls along Bondi Beach’s promenade, gazing at a floral tribute honoring the victims of a mass shooting that targeted a Hanukkah celebration on Sunday at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, December 16, 2025. — Reuters
– Prime Minister Albanese states the suspected shooter will be charged within hours.
– Authorities investigate links between the shooters and Daesh; interviews are anticipated.
– The family of a wounded police officer reports he lost an eye.
One of two men believed to have carried out Australia’s worst mass shooting in thirty years is expected to face charges later Wednesday, as funeral services for the Jewish victims of Sunday’s attack commence. The alleged father-and-son team opened fire during a Hanukkah celebration at Sydney’s renowned Bondi Beach, an event that shocked the country and raised concerns about increasing antisemitism and extremism.
Sajid Akram, 50, was shot and killed by police at the scene, while his 24-year-old son, identified by local media as Naveed, emerged from a coma on Wednesday after also being shot by officers.
Albanese mentioned in a podcast interview Wednesday morning that charges are imminent: “He will be formally charged, if not already, in the coming hours.” Authorities plan to question the son once he is off medication and his legal counsel is present. He remains hospitalized in Sydney under tight police supervision.
The suspects traveled to the southern Philippines weeks before the attack, a region known for ongoing militant activity. Australian police indicated the assault was likely inspired by Daesh, also known as ISIS.
President Donald Trump, speaking at a White House Hanukkah event late Tuesday, expressed his thoughts for the victims and condemned the attack as “horrific and antisemitic terrorist violence.”
Funeral services have begun for the victims. Rabbi Eli Schlanger, an assistant rabbi at Chabad Bondi and father of five, was laid to rest Wednesday. Schlanger was noted for his dedication to Sydney’s Jewish community, traveling to prisons and connecting with Jewish residents in public housing, according to Jewish leader Alex Ryvchin.
A photo shows mourners gathering at Chabad of Bondi synagogue during his funeral in Sydney, December 17, 2025. — Reuters
Albanese faces criticism that his center-left government did not do enough to curb antisemitism during the recent two-year Israel-Gaza conflict. He assured the community: “We will work closely with the Jewish community to eliminate antisemitism from our society.”
Questions remain about how Sajid Akram legally obtained high-powered rifles and shotguns used in the attack, prompting calls for comprehensive gun law reforms. In 2019, Akram’s son was briefly investigated over alleged Daesh associations, but authorities found no evidence at that time linking him to threats.
Albanese also paid tribute to Ahmed al-Ahmed, 43, who tackled one of the gunmen to disarm him despite being wounded himself. Al-Ahmed’s family in Syria said he left Idlib nearly 20 years ago seeking work in Australia. His uncle, Mohammed, expressed pride: “We learned about his bravery through social media. We called his father, and they told us that Ahmed is a hero. Australia and Syria are proud of him.”
The police officer wounded during the attack, Jack Hibbert, 22, who had been on duty just four months, lost sight in one eye and faces a lengthy recovery, his family announced Wednesday. Despite injuries, Hibbert acted with urgency and selflessness, continuing to assist others until unable to do so.
Twenty-two individuals remain hospitalized across Sydney. Among the victims was a Holocaust survivor, a couple who confronted the gunmen before they started firing, and a 10-year-old girl named Matilda, whose father emphasized the importance of remembering her as a symbol of resilience. The family of the young girl, who came from Ukraine, asked that her legacy not be forgotten, highlighting her Australian identity.
In Bondi, local residents gathered on the beach to observe a moment of silence, expressing unity and collective mourning. A young man, Archie Kalaf, reflected, “This week has been very impactful. Everyone’s grieving and processing in their own way, but there’s a strong sense of community coming together.”
A new detail has surfaced about Bondi Beach attacker Sajid Akram, revealing he is originally from South Asia and migrated to Australia nearly 30 years ago. The incident, which targeted the Jewish community and is being considered an act of terrorism, stands as the most severe mass shooting in Australia in approximately three decades.
The casualty count has risen to 16, including 50-year-old Akram himself. His 24-year-old son, who is suspected to have been involved, was also shot during the attack and remains in critical condition at the hospital.
Indian authorities identified Akram as a native of Hyderabad, the capital city of Telangana in southern India. Telangana police stated on Tuesday that Sajid Akram had visited India six times, primarily for family reasons, since moving to Australia in 1998. Officials added that his family members were unaware of any radical beliefs or activities, nor what caused his radicalization.
Australian officials mentioned that both father and son had traveled to the Philippines last month. The father was using an Indian passport, while the son carried an Australian one. The purpose of their trip is still under investigation, and authorities have not yet determined if they are connected to any terrorist organizations or if they received training during their visit.
Two of the attackers involved in the Bondi Beach shooting that resulted in at least 15 fatalities during a Jewish gathering in Australia on December 14 have roots in Hyderabad, according to officials from India, as reported by The Hindu.
Indian authorities provided information about the gunman, Sajid Akram, 50, who is now deceased, following a background check. Sajid, a resident of Tolichowki in Hyderabad, migrated to Australia in 1998 on a student visa and has only visited India a few times since then, with his most recent trip being in 2022.
A top government official stated that Sajid’s father passed away in 2017 and that Sajid did not attend the funeral rites. Another official added that Sajid’s immediate family remains in Hyderabad, with his elder brother working as a medical doctor. Sajid’s son, Naveed, 24, born in Australia in 2001, also participated in the attack, was shot by police, and is now hospitalized.
The official explained that Sajid completed a bachelor’s degree in commerce in Hyderabad before moving to Australia, where he married a woman of European descent. He retained his Indian passport. Indian authorities do not currently find evidence of any local connections to the attack and have only conducted preliminary investigations based on information from their sources.
Australian authorities remain in contact with Indian officials as investigations proceed. When asked if Sajid was of Indian origin, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the investigation is still ongoing and declined to provide further details to avoid compromising it.
Additionally, Filipino authorities confirmed Sajid Akram’s Indian nationality by citing his travel documents. Sajid and his son Naveed arrived in the Philippines on November 1, with Davao listed as their destination, and they stayed primarily in the country for almost the entire month of November. Immigration officials in Manila confirmed their entry, noting Sajid entered as an Indian national.
Both father and son departed the Philippines on November 28 via a connecting flight from Davao to Manila, en route back to Sydney. There were initial reports suggesting they might have received military-style training in the Philippines, but the military has not verified this. The country has a history of insurgencies, including the brutal siege of Marawi City in 2017, which was fought by ISIS-aligned groups such as Maute and Abu Sayyaf.
Authorities described the attack as potentially inspired by Daesh (ISIS) ideology. Evidence linking to terrorist groups included a vehicle registered to Naveed that contained improvised explosive devices and flags associated with ISIS. Videos have surfaced showing the younger attacker preaching religion outside Sydney train stations, with investigators still trying to understand his path to violence.
This massacre was Australia’s deadliest mass shooting in nearly three decades and is being treated as a terrorist act targeting the Jewish community. The death toll stands at 16, including Sajid, who was shot on the spot, and Naveed, who remains in critical condition. The victims ranged from a rabbi and Holocaust survivor to a 10-year-old girl. Two police officers are also hospitalized in stable but critical condition.
Prime Minister Albanese indicated that the attackers were likely influenced by Daesh ideology, emphasizing that their actions are linked to terrorist organizations, not religion per se.
The Philippine military acknowledged the presence of the suspects but has yet to confirm whether they received any military training in the country, despite earlier suggestions. Mindanao, where the suspects stayed, has a history of insurgent and terrorist activity, including the 2017 conflict in Marawi, which resulted in over 1,000 deaths and displaced hundreds of thousands.
Philippine immigration authorities have confirmed that the father-son pair involved in the Bondi Beach shooting visited as “Indian nationals.” Earlier, Australian police also stated that the two suspects—who attacked a Hanukkah celebration at Sydney Beach—had traveled to the Philippines prior to the incident, which resulted in 15 fatalities and appeared to be motivated by ISIS.
According to BBC, citing the Philippines Immigration Bureau, the suspects entered the country on November 1 using Indian passports and departed on November 28. They reportedly listed the southern city of Davao as their final destination before returning to Sydney. Davao is a major city situated on the eastern coast of Mindanao, the Philippines’ largest southern island. It’s known that armed groups operate in some economically disadvantaged areas of central and southwestern Mindanao.
The Philippine military mentioned that it was unable to verify early claims that the suspects received “military-style training” during their stay in the Philippines, despite earlier reports suggesting otherwise.
This is an evolving story and updates will follow as more details emerge.
Former colleague of attacker Naveed Akram can be seen in this image. — Screengrab via A Current Affair
A former coworker of one of the Bondi Beach attackers shared with an international media outlet that Naveed Akram’s ethnicity is Indian.
In an interview with A Current Affair, Lachie, a former colleague, said he recognized Akram immediately when he saw his photo online.
Discussing Akram’s personal background, the former coworker explained: “Yeah, his background is Indian and Italian… his mom’s Italian, and his dad’s Indian.”
A father and son opened fire during a Jewish festival at Australia’s most popular beach on Sunday evening, resulting in 15 fatalities, including a child, and injuring 42 others.
The former coworker stated he was scrolling through social media when he saw the image. “Shock, disbelief — genuine shock,” he recalled. “I couldn’t believe that someone I spent time with every workday could commit such cruelty.”
He emphasized that regardless of the motive, the attack was unjustifiable. “Whatever the reasons behind it, it’s just wrong. And for what?” he questioned.
The ex-colleague said he worked with Akram intermittently for about five years in construction. “Probably on and off for about five years, mostly as a bricklayer,” he added.
He noted that Akram’s behavior showed no signs of potential violence. “You wouldn’t think it. But that’s him,” he remarked.
Officials have condemned the attack as terror-related, though they haven’t officially identified the shooters—one who was killed on scene and the other hospitalized.
However, Australia’s national broadcaster ABC stated that the alleged attacker was Naveed Akram from Bonnyrigg, a suburb in western Sydney, citing an unnamed official. Local media also reported police raids at his residence.
According to reports, Naveed was detained at the scene and transported to the hospital, where he remains under police supervision in critical but stable condition. His father, Sajid, reportedly owned a fruit shop and died at the scene.
Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke confirmed Sajid arrived in Australia in 1998 on a student visa, which was later converted to a partner visa in 2001. He also holds a resident return visa. Burke added that Naveed, born in 2001, is an Australian citizen.
Family members had initially told relatives they were heading to the South Coast for fishing, with Verena, Naveed’s mother, saying he had gone to Jervis Bay with his dad for the weekend and last contacted them Sunday morning.
‘Terrified’ Sydney man misidentified as Bondi gunman
A Sydney resident, wrongly identified as the gunman, recounted receiving death threats and feeling too afraid to leave his home on Monday after his photo circulated widely online.
Images of a smiling man in a green Pakistan cricket jersey spread across social media platforms.
Many of these posts were shared thousands of times, accompanied by hostile comments.
The photo was taken from a Facebook profile belonging to a different Naveed Akram, who issued a video appeal on Monday through the Pakistan Consulate in Sydney, urging people to stop spreading misinformation.
“According to media reports, one of the shooters is named Naveed Akram, but my name is also Naveed Akram,” he stated in the video.
“That’s not me. I have no connection to the incident or the individual involved,” he added, condemning the “horrible” Bondi Beach attack.
“I need everyone’s help to stop this false information,” he urged, asking users to report accounts that misuse his photo, which he shared on Facebook in 2019.
‘Life-threatening’
The 30-year-old, residing in a northwest Sydney suburb, told AFP he first learned around 9:30 p.m. on Sunday that he had been falsely linked to the shooting.
“I couldn’t even sleep last night,” Akram admitted, saying he deleted numerous hateful messages he received.
“I’m terrified. I can’t go outside; it feels life-threatening. I don’t want to take any risks… my family is worried as well, so this has been a tough time for us.”
He asked the Pakistan Consulate to release his video, as relatives in Punjab, Pakistan, also received numerous phone calls.
“It was damaging my reputation and my family’s reputation,” he explained.
“People were calling them. They were worried, and they even contacted police back home.”
Originally from Pakistan, he moved to Australia in 2018 to study at Central Queensland University, later completing a master’s at Sydney’s Holmes Institute.
Today, he owns a car rental business and expressed his love for Australia.
“I really enjoy living here. I’ve never felt unsafe—everyone is so friendly,” Akram said.
“It’s just this incident that’s caused me so much trauma.”
Multiple major cities, including Berlin, London, and New York, have increased security around Hanukkah celebrations following the recent attack on a Jewish holiday event at Sydney’s Bondi Beach. Berlin authorities announced enhanced measures around the Brandenburg Gate, where a large electric menorah is being lit to mark the holiday’s first night. A spokesperson stated, “We’ve long prepared comprehensive security for tonight’s Hanukkah event at Brandenburg Gate, but in light of the Sydney incident, we will intensify our efforts and maintain a robust police presence.”
In New York City, Mayor Eric Adams confirmed on social media that additional security forces are protecting Hanukkah events and synagogues across the city. “We are committed to ensuring the Jewish community can celebrate safely, including at public menorah lighting ceremonies. Our thoughts are with the injured, and we stand united against hate,” he said.
Poland’s main synagogue also doubled its armed security for Sunday evening services. Authorities there confirmed they are heightening security at diplomatic missions and religious sites due to the tense context following the Sydney attack, which was described as a targeted antisemitic act resulting in at least 11 deaths.
The Berlin event at the Brandenburg Gate will include a prayer for the victims of the Sydney shooting, which authorities characterized as a deliberate antisemitic assault. Germany’s policy of overseeing Jewish and Israeli safety, rooted in historical responsibility for the Holocaust, means that increased security measures at Jewish institutions are standard, but they will be further ramped up during Hanukkah.
London’s Metropolitan Police also reported an uptick in security presence, though they provided few details. “While there’s no specific link between the Sydney attack and London’s threat level, we are boosting patrols and engaging with the Jewish community to understand additional security needs,” a police statement noted.
In France, Interior Minister Laurent Nunez directed local authorities to reinforce security at Jewish places of worship from December 14 through 22. He urged increased deployment of officers to monitor large religious gatherings and public celebrations, emphasizing heightened vigilance during this sensitive period.
World leaders gathered on Sunday to voice their horror and disgust over a mass shooting that left 12 people dead at Sydney’s famous Bondi Beach.
New South Wales Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon reported that one suspect gunman was killed, while another remains in critical condition. He also stated that at least 29 individuals, including two police officers, were hospitalized. Authorities are investigating whether a third suspect was involved and are examining several suspected homemade explosive devices.
Mike Burgess, Australia’s top intelligence official, mentioned that one of the attackers was known to authorities but was not considered an immediate threat.
Here are some comments from global leaders following the tragic event:
“Dark moment”
President Asif Ali Zardari expressed deep sorrow over the incident, extending condolences to the victims’ families and wishing a swift recovery for the injured. On X (formerly Twitter), he shared that Pakistan, having experienced terrorism itself, fully understands the pain such violence causes. He condemned attacks on innocent civilians and said Pakistan stands in solidarity with Australia, reaffirming its unwavering stance against terrorism in all forms.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also issued his condolences via his official X account, condemning terrorism and standing shoulder to shoulder with Australia during this difficult time.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called the attack “shocking and distressing,” labeling it a “terrorist” act as assailants targeted a crowd celebrating Hanukkah. He noted that Australian police and security services are actively investigating the incident.
Opposition leader Sussan Ley expressed her grief, saying Australians are mourning as violence has struck Bondi, an iconic community beloved by many.
EU President Ursula von der Leyen expressed her shock at the shooting, condemning it as a heinous act of violence. She underscored Europe’s support for Australia and Jewish communities worldwide, affirming against hatred, antisemitism, and violence.
Kaja Kallas, EU foreign policy chief, also condemned the attack, emphasizing the importance of unequivocal rejection of such violence.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer conveyed the UK’s condolences, describing the news from Bondi as deeply upsetting.
French President Emmanuel Macron vowed that France would persist in fighting anti-Semitic hatred relentlessly.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni shared her profound grief over the tragic news from Sydney, reaffirming Italy’s condemnation of all violence and anti-Semitism, and offering condolences to the victims.
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul expressed deep shock over the terrorist attack, which he characterized as an act of hatred targeting Jews worldwide on Hanukkah’s first day, extending his sympathies to the families of victims and the Jewish community.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky posted on X that Ukraine stands in solidarity with Australia in the face of the brutal attack targeting the Jewish community in Sydney. He emphasized that terror and hatred must be defeated everywhere and at all times.
A prominent Australian Muslim organization denounced the attack as “horrific.”
New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Luxon said that Australia and New Zealand are more like family than friends, expressing shock at the disturbing scenes at Bondi. He extended his thoughts and condolences to all those affected.
Australia has implemented financial sanctions and travel bans targeting four officials within Afghanistan’s Taliban government, citing worsening human rights abuses—particularly against women and girls. Foreign Minister Penny Wong stated that these officials are responsible for suppressing women’s rights and undermining governance and the rule of law in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan.
The sanctions focus on three Taliban ministers and the group’s chief justice, accusing them of limiting access for women and girls to education, employment, freedom of movement, and participation in public life. These measures are part of a new framework that allows Australia to impose targeted sanctions and travel restrictions directly, aiming to increase pressure on the Taliban and address the oppression faced by the Afghan population.
Australia previously evacuated thousands of Afghans—mainly women and children—after the Taliban retook control of their country. Since the Taliban’s return to power, the environment for women’s rights has significantly deteriorated, with bans on education and work, despite Taliban claims of respecting women’s rights within their interpretation of religious law. Currently, much of Afghanistan’s population depends heavily on humanitarian aid for survival.
A shark attack in New South Wales, Australia, resulted in one fatality and serious injuries to another on Thursday. Authorities reported the incident occurred early in the morning at Crowdy Bay, approximately 155 miles north of Sydney. One woman died instantly, and another individual suffered severe leg injuries, requiring air evacuation to a nearby hospital where they are reported to be in stable condition.
According to NSW Police Inspector Timothy Bayly, the victims knew each other, and they were swimming when the shark struck. State ambulance inspector Joshua Smyth commended a bystander who potentially saved the injured man’s life by applying a makeshift tourniquet to his leg. Smyth praised the bystanders’ bravery during the crisis.
Steven Pearce, CEO of Surf Life Saving NSW, described the event as “absolutely terrible” and mentioned that the area is very remote, with no lifeguard services available. The affected beach and surrounding areas are now closed as officials investigate which species of shark was responsible.
Since 1791, Australia has experienced over 1,280 shark incidents, with more than 250 fatalities. The most common aggressors are great whites, tiger sharks, and bull sharks. In September, a great white killed a surfer at a popular Sydney beach, leaving behind a wife and young daughter. The victim sustained multiple amputations, and his surfboard was shattered.
Despite the dangers, many Australians continue to enjoy the ocean. A 2024 survey revealed that nearly two-thirds of the population made 650 million visits to the coast in a year. Efforts to safeguard swimmers include deploying drones, attaching acoustic tags to sharks to monitor their movements via listening buoys, issuing real-time alerts through mobile apps, and setting up traditional shark nets.
Environmental experts point out that shark populations also need protection. Globally, about 37% of oceanic shark and ray species are currently classified as endangered or critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
Digital Phablet – Recently, well-known American singer Katy Perry faced criticism on social media after sharing a video where she threw a cake onto the ground to celebrate her 41st birthday. Fans quickly labeled her “selfish” and “wasteful” for the act.
Following the candle-blowing moment, Perry, the pop superstar, picked up the cake and aimed it at a staff member. The staff member dodged the cake, causing Perry to let it fall to the floor. The guests at the celebration then gathered around the discarded cake to take bites from the floor.
This birthday event was held backstage after Perry’s performance during her Lifetimes Tour in Sydney, Australia.
Katy Perry Faces Backlash for Destroying Her 41st Birthday Cake
my mom was the one that baked this cake, she was so excited about the opportunity to make a cake for Katy Perry and spent so long on it, im genuinely confused and upset as to why she would do this
A user on X (formerly Twitter) expressed, “A grown woman, 41 years old, showing no regard for the person who will clean up her mess or for the one who spent so much time making that cake. She needs to get her head out of the clouds. Katy Perry has been increasingly distasteful lately, especially considering her recent collaboration with Dr. Luke.”
An additional satirical comment added, “My mom baked that cake, she was so proud and excited to make it for Katy Perry, and now I just can’t understand why she’d do this.”
The viral video sparked a wave of memes, satire, and critiques across social media platforms. One user commented, "With famine affecting many parts of the world, Katy Perry just chucks an entire cake to the ground."
Katy Perry's Unexpected Romance with Justin Trudeau
(Photos by AFP/ Getty Images)
Sources indicate that Katy Perry and Justin Trudeau, the former Prime Minister of Canada, are now officially a couple after recently making their relationship public. The two were seen holding hands in Paris on Saturday.
The rumors about their unexpected romance began circulating in July when they were photographed sharing a meal at a Montreal restaurant. This development follows Perry's breakup after nearly ten years with English actor Orlando Bloom.
British, Canadian, and Australian leaders all announced the recognition of a Palestinian state on Sunday, driven by frustration over the Gaza conflict and aiming to promote a two-state resolution. However, this move is expected to provoke anger from Israel and its primary supporter, the United States.
This decision places these countries alongside approximately 140 other nations that support Palestinian aspirations for an independent homeland beyond Israeli-occupied lands.
Prime Minister Starmer stated, “Today, to foster hope for peace between Palestinians and Israelis and to support a two-state solution, the United Kingdom officially recognizes the State of Palestine.” Both Canada and Australia also confirmed their recognition of Palestine today, with additional countries anticipated to follow during this week’s United Nations General Assembly session in New York.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced that Canada now recognizes Palestine, emphasizing, “Canada recognizes the State of Palestine and stands ready to work together toward a peaceful future for both Palestine and Israel.”
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese noted that recognizing Palestine is part of an effort to re-energize negotiations for a two-state solution, which begins with a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages.
In July, Britain issued Israel an ultimatum, stating that unless Israel took measures to end the dire situation in Gaza, it would recognize a Palestinian state. This stance put Starmer at odds with U.S. President Donald Trump.
Husam Zomlot, head of Palestine’s London mission, described the recognition as a “long-overdue acknowledgment” that fulfills Britain’s responsibility. He added, “This marks an irreversible step toward justice, peace, and righting historic wrongs.”
Starmer had previously set conditions for recognition, including a ceasefire with Hamas, increased aid into Gaza, no annexation of the West Bank, and a commitment to a peace process leading to a two-state outcome. However, since that declaration, the situation has worsened, with Israel advancing settlement plans and the assault on Gaza continuing, leading many lawmakers to criticize the move amid rising civilian suffering.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared that a Palestinian state will never be established. Public opinion in London remains divided. Some see recognition as a necessary acknowledgment of Palestinians’ right to a homeland, while others believe it could undermine Israel or support militant groups like Hamas.
Historian Victor Kattan argued that Britain’s recognition should be accompanied by an apology and reparations, citing historic responsibilities dating back to the 1917 Balfour Declaration. This acknowledgment could lead to upgrades in the Palestinian mission’s status in London and possibly restrictions on products from Israeli settlements.
Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin emphasized that recognition is a vital step toward Palestinian sovereignty, bringing the goal of independence closer. “This is not the end but a significant move forward,” she said, amid ongoing conflicts and military campaigns in Gaza.
The first Hunter x Hunter game for consoles in over ten years is now available. Hunter x Hunter: Nen x Impact can be played on PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch. However, fans in Australia are not able to join in on the fun.
This is because the game was denied classification in December and hasn’t been resubmitted for review. As a result, it remains banned in a region where around 91 percent of households have a gaming device.
Hunter x Hunter Will Seemingly Remain Banned Unless Some Things Are Cut
The Australian government’s rating board, similar to PEGI and ESRB, has marked Nen x Impact as “Refused Classification” (RC), meaning it is effectively banned. The classification date was back in November 2024, and there has been no change despite the game getting closer to its release date. It is still unclear why it was refused classification, especially since it has been revealed that the game’s story mode lasts about an hour and skips many key events from the series.
On Twitter, the game’s publisher, Arc System Works, celebrated the launch, but Australian fans urged them to find a way to resubmit it. One user commented, “Please fix this for Australia. Resubmit it if possible. I want to play it, but I can’t.”
Given the time both the developer and publisher had to resubmit the game, it appears unlikely that it will be made available in Australia. This is disheartening for fans who simply want to support their favorite anime.
Hunter x Hunter: Nen x Impact
Released: July 17, 2025
ESRB: T For Teen – Blood and Gore, Language, Partial Nudity, Use of Tobacco, Violence
