Baltimore’s Jewish community mourns after Australia’s deadly Hanukkah tragedy

A shadow fell over Hanukkah in Baltimore as news broke of a massacre in Australia. Now, a city clings to solidarity—and heightened vigilance.

, and Administrator

2025 December 15 . 7:33 PM

1 min read

In this picture there are people and soldiers. On right to the wall there is flag. At the top to... — In this picture there are people and soldiers. On right to the wall there is flag. At the top to the ceiling there are lights.

Baltimore’s Jewish community mourns after Australia’s deadly Hanukkah tragedy

Baltimore’s Jewish community gathered for the first night of Hanukkah under sombre skies. The celebration came just hours after a deadly shooting at Bondi Beach in Australia left 15 dead and 40 wounded. Local leaders and police stepped up security as the city stood in solidarity with victims overseas.

The violence unfolded on December 15, 2025, at around 2:30 PM local time in Sydney. New South Wales Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon confirmed the shooters as a 50-year-old father and his 24-year-old son, Navid Akram, a Pakistani national. Police fatally shot the father, while the son survived in serious condition.

The attack in Australia has left deep scars, with Baltimore’s Jewish community mourning alongside those overseas. Enhanced police presence will remain in place as investigations continue. The tragedy has prompted renewed calls for vigilance against hate-fuelled violence.