A serious incident of armed violence occurred at Bondi Beach, in Sydney’s eastern suburbs, with New South Wales Police confirming that gunfire took place and urging the public to avoid the area as investigations and a security operation continue.

Initial reports speak of 13 injured people who have been transported to hospitals.

Witnesses report that at approximately 6:40 p.m. local time on Sunday, two men got out of a vehicle on Campbell Parade, near the Bondi Pavilion, and opened fire, which lasted about ten minutes. Videos recorded by bystanders reportedly show two individuals dressed in black shooting near the beach, where nearly 2,000 people were present.

According to the same information, powerful firearms were used (one of which was found abandoned in a tree in the area), with authorities estimating that at least 30 shots were fired.

A man who witnessed the armed attack said he saw at least 10 people lying on the ground. “I saw at least 10 people on the ground and blood everywhere,” said Harry Wilson, a witness to the shooting, speaking to the Sydney Morning Herald. No official information has yet been released by authorities regarding the number of victims.

Strong police forces, ambulances, and other emergency services rushed to the scene, while the area has been cordoned off. Authorities are asking those nearby to seek shelter. “Anyone in the area should take cover. Police are on site and more information will be provided when available,” the NSW Police statement said.

The incident occurred at a particularly busy time, as thousands of locals and tourists were at the beach following a day with temperatures reaching 30 degrees Celsius. At the same time, on Sunday evening, an event celebrating the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah was taking place in the area, called “Chanukah by the Sea,” which had been advertised as a family event.

A spokesperson for Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also commented on the incident, stating: “We are aware of an active security situation in the Bondi area. We urge anyone in the area to follow the instructions of New South Wales Police.”

According to reports, two men have been arrested; however, so far there has been no official announcement from authorities regarding the exact number of injured or their condition.

Israeli President Herzog strongly condemns the attack

The President of Israel, Isaac Herzog, condemned the armed attack at Sydney’s Bondi Beach during a Hanukkah celebration, calling on Canberra to combat “the enormous wave of antisemitism” that he says is “plaguing Australian society.”

“Our sisters and brothers in Sydney, Australia, were attacked by despicable terrorists in a very harsh assault against Jews who had gone to light the first candle of Hanukkah,” Herzog said while speaking at an event at the Presidential Residence in Jerusalem.

“We reiterate again and again our warnings to the Australian government to take action and fight the enormous wave of antisemitism that is afflicting Australian society,” he added.

“Our condolences… we pray for the recovery of the injured, we pray for them, and we pray for those who lost their lives,” he said.