Alexander Kleytman, an 87-year-old Holocaust survivor who emigrated from Ukraine to Australia, was among the 15 civilians killed in the terrorist attack at a Hanukkah celebration on Sydney’s Bondi Beach on December 14, 2025. His wife, Larisa Kleytman, also a Holocaust survivor, recounted how her husband of nearly 60 years positioned himself to shield her when shots rang out, an act that ultimately cost him his life.

The couple had attended the annual “Chanukah by the Sea” event organized by Chabad of Bondi, a tradition they cherished for many years. Larisa Kleytman spoke to reporters outside St Vincent’s Hospital, describing the sudden chaos: “We were standing and suddenly came the ‘boom boom’, and everybody fell down. At this moment he was behind me and at one moment he decided to go close to me. He pushed his body up because he wanted to stay near me.”

She expressed belief that Alex raised himself to protect her, resulting in a fatal wound. “He came to Bondi Beach to celebrate Hanukkah, for us it was always a very, very good celebration, for many, many years,” she told The Australian. The Kleytmans, who share two children and 11 grandchildren, had built a life in Australia after surviving harrowing experiences during World War II.

Alex Kleytman endured the Holocaust as a child, surviving with his mother and younger brother in harsh conditions in Siberia after fleeing Ukraine. Larisa faced similar terrors. Their migration to Australia represented a search for peace and stability, where they raised their family in the Sydney suburbs, eventually settling in Matraville.

The attack unfolded around 6:47 p.m. local time in Archer Park near Bondi Pavilion, as hundreds gathered for the festive event marking the first night of Hanukkah. Families enjoyed music, games, and a giant menorah lighting amid the summer evening atmosphere. Witnesses described a mixed crowd of beachgoers and participants when two individuals began firing, targeting the Jewish gathering.

New South Wales Police declared the incident a terrorist act, with investigations led by the Joint Counter Terrorism Team. Authorities identified the suspects as Sajid Akram, 50, and his son Naveed Akram, 24, from Bonnyrigg in Sydney’s south-west. Sajid was pronounced dead at the scene after police engagement, while Naveed was hospitalized in critical condition under guard. Improvised devices found in a vehicle were neutralized safely.

The death toll stood at 15 civilians, with ages ranging from 10 to 87, plus dozens injured, including two police officers. Victims included Rabbi Eli Schlanger, a 41-year-old London-born assistant rabbi at Chabad of Bondi and event organizer; a 10-year-old girl named Matilda; French national Dan Elkayam; retired police officer turned photographer Peter Meagher; and community member Reuven Morrison, among others.

Chabad, the organization hosting the event, confirmed several losses within their community, noting Rabbi Schlanger’s dedication over 18 years and his role as a father of five. Other identified victims highlighted the diverse attendees: families, visitors, and locals drawn to the inclusive celebration.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the targeting of the Jewish community on the first day of Hanukkah, calling it an “act of evil, antisemitism, terrorism.” He announced extended security funding for Jewish organizations, support for victims’ funerals, and visa assistance for overseas relatives. NSW Premier Chris Minns pledged reviews of gun laws, noting some weapons were legally held.

Global leaders expressed solidarity, with U.S. President Donald Trump labeling it a “purely antisemitic attack,” and figures from Israel, France, and Europe offering condolences. Vigils formed at Bondi Pavilion, with flowers and messages accumulating as a site of remembrance.

Community responses emphasized resilience. Jewish organizations noted increased prejudice reports in recent years, advocating for stronger measures. Interfaith leaders joined calls for unity, while support services activated for witnesses and families.

Eyewitnesses recounted rapid panic as shots echoed, with people seeking cover on the grass. A bystander, Ahmed al Ahmed, a local shop owner and refugee, intervened by disarming one suspect, an action praised by officials for potentially reducing harm.

The Kleytmans’ story resonated widely, symbolizing enduring love amid tragedy. Alex, a retired civil engineer, and Larisa had attended Bondi Hanukkah events annually, finding joy in the communal gatherings. Their survival of past adversities contrasted sharply with this loss, prompting reflections on vulnerability even in safe havens.

Other victim profiles emerged gradually. Matilda, 10, was described by family as a “very sweet, happy child with a beautiful smile,” attending with parents and siblings. Rabbi Schlanger’s cousin shared tributes online, highlighting his warmth and family devotion. Dan Elkayam, a young French visitor, joined the celebration with community members.

Peter Meagher, known as Marzo, volunteered at a local rugby club and freelanced as a photographer at the event. Reuven Morrison divided time between Melbourne and Sydney, active in Chabad circles.

Investigations continued into motivations and planning, with raids at the suspects’ residence and a rental property. No additional threats were identified, and police urged reliance on official updates.

Bondi Beach, an iconic summer destination, transformed into a scene of mourning overnight. Typically bustling with leisure, it now hosted memorials underscoring Australia’s multicultural fabric.

As Hanukkah progressed, communities adapted events with heightened security, focusing on themes of light overcoming darkness. Chabad leaders vowed to continue outreach, honoring victims through added kindness.

The Kleytmans’ grandchildren and children gathered in grief, supported by extended networks. Larisa’s account of their routine attendance—”always a very good celebration”—captured the innocence shattered that evening.

Broader discussions arose on public safety at gatherings, gun regulations, and combating prejudice. Albanese convened national security meetings, balancing responses with community needs.

International coverage highlighted Australia’s response, from rapid emergency services to civilian bravery. Hospitals treated survivors, with conditions varying.

Memorial funds established aided families, while counseling expanded for trauma impacts.

Sydney’s Jewish community, centered in the eastern suburbs, rallied with interfaith support. Leaders stressed shared values amid shock.

The attack marked Australia’s deadliest since 1996, prompting parliamentary reflections.

For the Kleytmans, a life rebuilt from ashes ended in protection and devotion. Alex’s final gesture echoed lifelong commitment to family.

As details solidified, focus shifted to healing and prevention.

Vigils planned included candle lightings, aligning with Hanukkah traditions.

Nationwide moments of silence observed losses.

Support poured from global Jewish diaspora.

Local businesses near Bondi offered assistance to affected staff.

Schools adjusted for student wellbeing in the area.

The personal narratives, like the Kleytmans’, humanized statistics.

Larisa sought closure amid uncertainty over procedures.

Community figures praised responders’ efforts.

Long-term reviews anticipated on licensing and monitoring.

Victim ages spanning generations underscored indiscriminate impact.

Chabad’s global network shared remembrances.

Alex Kleytman’s survival story, detailed in past reports, inspired many.

His Siberian experiences formed resilience passed to descendants.

Australia’s welcoming of post-war migrants included many like the Kleytmans.

Their marriage endured decades, rooted in shared history.

The event’s outreach drew diverse participants, amplifying tragedy.

Police commended containment actions.

Bystander interventions received formal recognition.

As holidays neared, emphasis on togetherness grew.

Sydney prepared unified responses.

The Kleytmans’ attendance reflected integration and joy found.

Larisa’s words lingered, portraying ordinary moments turned fateful.

Investigations proceeded methodically.

Public donations supported recovery.

Memorial designs involved input.

Impacts on tourism noted, with solidarity messages.

Mental health promotions increased.

Debates balanced security enhancements.

Global reactions reinforced alliances.

Australian unity highlighted in narratives.

Inquiry timelines extended.

Proceedings awaited for the surviving suspect.

Privacy respected for relatives.

The protective act central to Alex’s remembrance.

Communal healing events scheduled.

Bondi’s legacy intertwined with resilience.

Nation pondered preventive paths.

Networks activated statewide.

Casualty confirmations sensitive.

Expertise consulted internationally if required.

Maternal-like grief in Larisa’s recounting touched many.

Inquiries advanced gradually.

Mourning prioritized currently.

Sydney united post-event.