LIVE: 'Shocked and appalled' Irish politicians react to terrorist attack at Bondi Beach

Irish politicians have reacted to the tragic events in Australia overnight as a gun attack on Bondi Beach left at least 12 people dead. 

Taoiseach Micheál Martin, writing on X before the death toll had risen to 12 said: "Shocked and appalled by the gun attack that left ten people dead at Sydney’s Bondi Beach."

"Our prayers go to the families and friends of those lost, the injured, first responders, and people of Australia at this distressing time."

He concluded: "Such hate and violence can never be tolerated."

Shocked and appalled by the gun attack that left ten people dead at Sydney’s Bondi Beach.

Our prayers go to the families and friends of those lost, the injured, first responders, and people of Australia at this distressing time.

Such hate and violence can never be tolerated.

— Micheál Martin (@MichealMartinTD) December 14, 2025

Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Helen McEntee also weighed in on the horrific incident on X commenting: "“I want to express my shock and horror at the incident which took place at Bondi Beach in Sydney over recent hours."

She added: "All my thoughts are with the victims and their loved ones and the people of Australia."

Helen McEntee TD has also said her department are not aware of any Irish citizens directly impacted by the shooting.

She stated: "At this point, we are not aware of any Irish citizens who have been impacted directly by these awful events.

"Our Consulate in Sydney is continuing to monitor events and will remain in close contact with Irish citizens and the community locally."

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Two shooters opened fire on the beach killing a dozen people and wounding multiple others who were brought to various hospitals in the vicinity. 

New South Wales Police have said that one of the shooters was killed and the other is in critical condition. 

The police expressed that a number of 'suspicious items' were found at the scene and are currently being examined as part of the investigation into the incident. 

They also confirmed that an "improvised explosive device" had been found in a car linked to a suspect in the deadly shooting.

Officials in Australia have said it that the Bondi Beach shooting was a terrorist attack targeting the Jewish who were reportedly celebrating Hanukkah in the area.

The large crowds fled the iconic beach following the incident which is a hugely popular destination amongst both locals and tourists especially on weekends.