The Times of Israel Daily Briefing Day 801 - Anguish in Australia after bloody terror attack at Hanukkah event
7 snips
Dec 15, 2025 Zev Stub, a Diaspora reporter covering global Jewish communities, joins Rossella Tercatin, a religion and archaeology expert. They discuss the devastating terror attack at a Hanukkah gathering in Sydney, highlighting the timeline of events and the tragic loss of life, including notable victims. Zev shares insights into the attackers' identities and motives, while Rossella provides context on the vibrant Chabad traditions at Bondi Beach. They also touch on the ongoing concerns within the Jewish community regarding safety and the history of public Hanukkah celebrations.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Public Attack Shattered Safety Assumptions
- The Bondi Beach attack was an unprecedented public assault on a mass Jewish event rather than a synagogue.
- At least 15 were killed and over 40 wounded, marking the deadliest antisemitic attack outside Israel in decades.
Muslim Shopkeeper Tackled An Attacker
- Ahmed Al-Ahmed, a 43-year-old Muslim produce shop owner, tackled and disarmed one attacker in a widely seen video.
- Police said his action likely saved many lives even though the attacker later fled.
Mixed Motive Theories Emerge Quickly
- Police identified the perpetrators as father and son Sajid and Naveed Akram and found an ISIS flag in their car.
- Investigators are also exploring possible Iranian involvement given prior attacks and regional patterns.