Nation in Mourning: Australia Reflects on Sydney's Hanukkah Attack

Australia honored victims of a Hanukkah gun attack in Sydney that left 15 dead and dozens injured. Prime Minister Albanese announced a review of law enforcement and intelligence agencies, amid calls to close loopholes in gun laws and combat rising antisemitism following the tragic event linked to ISIS.

Australia paused in solemn reflection on Sunday, remembering the victims of a gun attack that devastated a seaside Hanukkah celebration in Sydney. The tragedy, which claimed 15 lives and injured many more, prompted Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to launch a comprehensive review of the nation's law enforcement and intelligence operations.

As Australians lit candles to mark the final day of Hanukkah, the evening memorial at Bondi Beach unfolded under heightened security. This act of remembrance comes amid rising concerns about gaps in gun license regulations and information-sharing practices, highlighted by the attack carried out by a father and son duo.

With criticism mounting over a perceived insufficient response to antisemitism, Albanese's government faces mounting pressure to address hate crimes more aggressively. In light of this attack, authorities are moving swiftly to ban the display of terrorist symbols and further secure public safety.

(With inputs from agencies.)