15/12/2025
ISKCON Releases Statement of Condolence Following Bondi Beach Shooting
On December 14, 2025, a mass shooting at a Hanukkah celebration on Sydney’s Bondi Beach left at least 15 people dead and dozens more injured in what Australian authorities have condemned as an antisemitic terrorist attack targeting the Jewish community. The gunmen, identified as a father and son, opened fire on the crowd before police engaged them; the 50-year-old father was shot and killed at the scene, while his 24-year-old son was critically wounded and is now in hospital under police guard. Authorities also found and safely removed suspected explosive devices from the area. A 43-year-old fruit shop owner, Ahmed al Ahmed, was praised for disarming one of the attackers in the chaos.
Statement on the Mass Shootings in New South Wales, Australia
The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) is deeply shocked and saddened by the attack that took place on Bondi Beach, NSW, during Hanukkah celebrations.
We offer our heartfelt condolences to the victims, their families, and the entire Jewish community.
At this painful time, the members of ISKCON humbly offer prayers to the Supreme Lord, praying that the departed souls may find eternal peace, that those who are injured may receive strength and swift recovery, and that all who are grieving may be granted solace and healing.
We pray that the Lord, who resides in the hearts of all living beings, may shower His mercy upon the afflicted families and bestow courage, faith, and unity upon the wider community. May His divine guidance help restore harmony, compassion, and justice, and may peace prevail over hatred in the wake of this tragic event.
– Bhakta Dasa, ISKCON Communications director for Australia, on behalf of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness.
