Mikheil Kavelashvili strongly condemned the deadly shooting that took place at Bondi Beach in Sydney, describing the incident as a terrorist attack and expressing condolences to the families of the victims.
Based on the latest confirmed information, the attack claimed the lives of 15 people, including a 10-year-old girl, and left several others injured. The shooting occurred during a public event marking the Hanukkah holiday, which had drawn families and members of the local Jewish community.
“Georgia strongly condemns the terrorist attack that took place in Sydney, at Bondi Beach, during the celebration of Hanukkah. We express our deepest condolences to the families of the victims and pray for the full and speedy recovery of the injured,” Kavelashvili said in a statement.
Australian authorities said the incident was being treated as a terrorist act. Police confirmed that the attack was carried out by two armed individuals, identified as a father and son. A 50-year-old man was shot dead at the scene by police, while a 24-year-old man was hospitalized in critical condition.
Law enforcement officials stated that the area was immediately secured following the shooting and an investigation was launched to determine the motive and circumstances of the attack. Security measures were tightened across Sydney, particularly around public gatherings and religious sites.
The attack prompted widespread condemnation from political leaders and officials both in Australia and abroad, with many expressing solidarity with the victims and the Jewish community. Authorities continued to urge the public to remain calm while the investigation remained ongoing.
