By Ashen Tharaka. Australian police have confirmed that an improvised explosive device (IED) was found in a car linked to the suspect in a deadly shooting at Sydney's Bondi Beach on Sunday night. New South Wales Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon said the device was discovered during investigations co
Australian police have confirmed that an improvised explosive device (IED) was found in a car linked to the suspect in a deadly shooting at Sydney’s Bondi Beach on Sunday night.
New South Wales Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon said the device was discovered during investigations connected to the deceased attacker. He also confirmed that the incident, which occurred at around 9:36 pm, was officially declared a terrorist act.
Authorities said the shooting targeted Sydney’s Jewish community and took place on the first day of Hanukkah. New South Wales Premier Chris Minns stated that the attack was deliberately aimed at the community.
The incident left 10 people dead and shocked Australia and the international community. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said she was “shocked” by the attack, stressing that Europe stands with Australia and Jewish communities worldwide against violence, antisemitism and hatred. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas also strongly condemned what she described as an appalling act of violence.
Australia’s Muslim leaders also denounced the attack. The Australian National Imams Council expressed condolences to the victims and their families, calling for unity, compassion and solidarity among all Australians.
French President Emmanuel Macron extended France’s sympathies to the victims and the Australian people, saying his country would continue to fight relentlessly against antisemitic hatred wherever it occurs.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Australia had “poured oil on the fire of antisemitism” prior to the attack, a remark that has added to international debate following the tragedy.
Investigations into the attack are continuing as authorities work to determine all the circumstances surrounding the incident.
