A mass shooting at a Jewish Hanukkah celebration on Sydney’s Bondi Beach on Sunday left at least 10 people dead, and authorities are investigating a possible terror angle even as it has not been confirmed
so far.
According to an intelligence assessment of the attack by CNN-News18, the Bondi Beach attack will be examined closely as it targeted a religious and cultural gathering that provided both symbolic value and maximum visibility. The manner of the attack suggested careful planning in advance.
There is a possibility that the attackers deliberately chose a Jewish religious event to provoke communal fear or gain ideological attention. The incident showed signs of a terrorist or ideologically-motivated attack by deliberately targeting a Hanukkah celebration.
‘Sending A Message’
The targeting of a symbolic religious gathering with a large civilian presence is aligned with patterns seen in lone wolf extremist attacks of the past. Intel sources confirmed to CNN-News18 that the shooting was being examined as a possible terror attack.
Sources say the choice of a Hanukkah celebration, the presence of two attackers, coordinated attire, and sustained high-volume firing suggested advance planning. Investigators are probing whether the attackers intended to target a specific community and generate wider public fear.
Australian authorities have not revealed the established motive, the background of the attackers or any ideological links, even as they are analysing digital footprints, overseas links and radicalisation indicators. Investigators are also probing whether the attack was inspired by extremist narratives circulating online.
