Reactions to Mass Shooting During Hanukkah in Sydney

Several Hollywood celebrities, such as Gal Gadot, Ashton Kutcher, and Rebel Wilson, have shared their thoughts following a tragic mass shooting that occurred during Hanukkah festivities in Sydney, Australia, on Sunday.

On December 14th, two gunmen attacked the annual Hanukkah by the Sea event at Bondi Beach, where the Jewish community had gathered to light the first candle of the menorah. Reports indicate that 16 people lost their lives in the attack, including one of the suspected gunmen, with another suspect currently in critical condition.

Gadot expressed her sorrow on Instagram: “My heart is broken. The grief following this anti-Semitic terrorist attack is beyond measure. Fifteen innocent lives, including Holocaust survivors, rabbis, and children, were cruelly taken while they celebrated the first night of Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights.”

She added, “This darkness was intentionally struck at a sacred moment of community and hope. It’s easy to feel defeated, but our strength lies not in despair but in the light we choose to create in this terrifying void.”

Gadot urged people to “send light into the darkness,” emphasizing the importance of love and understanding over fear. “I light a Hanukkah candle tonight for their honor and a world of light. Only light.”

Ashton Kutcher remarked on X, highlighting the very real consequences of anti-Semitic rhetoric, stating, “It comes at a price, and my brothers and sisters continue to pay it. May this devastation somehow bring about a hidden miracle.”

Rebel Wilson, waking up to the heartbreaking news, called the event “the most un-Australian tragedy.” She stressed that such gun violence should not occur in Australia and offered her thoughts to all affected by the violence.

During these solemn moments, President Donald Trump encouraged Americans to “celebrate with pride” and not to let fear disrupt the holiday spirits of the Jewish community.

Authorities report that the shooting occurred around 6:45 p.m., confirming that multiple gunmen were involved and that the attack targeted the Jewish community, viewing it as an act of terrorism. At least 29 individuals, including two police officers, were hospitalized as a result of the shooting, marking it as the deadliest attack on the Jewish community since the events of October 7, 2023.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog addressed the attack during a separate event, expressing solidarity with the victims in Sydney. “At this very moment, our sisters and brothers were attacked by despicable terrorists during this time of celebration,” he said, offering prayers for healing and remembrance.