Sydney, December 31, 2025 – The Europe Today: Thousands of heavily armed police officers patrolled the streets of Sydney as residents and visitors marked the New Year, in a rare and unprecedented security response in Australia following the Bondi Beach mass shooting, local media reported.
Authorities confirmed that some officers were authorised to carry high-grade weapons as part of heightened security measures implemented across the city. The December 14 attack, which targeted Australia’s Jewish community during a Hanukkah festival, claimed the lives of 15 people.
New South Wales (NSW) Police announced that more than 2,500 officers would be on duty across Sydney to ensure public safety during the New Year celebrations.
As a mark of respect for the victims, official New Year’s Eve events were paused at 23:00 local time (12:00 GMT) for a minute of silence. In a symbolic gesture, the Sydney Harbour Bridge was illuminated with white light to signify peace.
The heightened security and solemn commemorations underscored the city’s resolve to honor the victims while safeguarding citizens during major public celebrations.
