UPDATE: New reports confirm that images circulating online, purporting to show hundreds of “radical Islamists” gathering in Melbourne just days after the tragic Bondi Beach shootings, are **FALSE**. These photos are actually from a peaceful religious event held in **July 2025**, specifically an Ashura procession, a significant occasion for Shia Muslims.
On **December 14, 2025**, a horrific attack left at least **15 people dead** and dozens injured when two gunmen opened fire on a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach. In the wake of this tragedy, misleading social media posts quickly emerged, misattributing images of a mass congregation to a supposed radical gathering. One post exclaimed, “INSANE! Radical Islamists just got together in Melbourne 3 days after 2 radicals SHOT & K*LLED 15 people at Bondi Beach in Sydney.”
However, fact-checking efforts by AAP FactCheck reveal these images were taken months prior to the attack. The photos, showing attendees kneeling in prayer, are actually screenshots from a TikTok video posted on **July 7, 2025**, during the **12th annual Ashura procession** in Melbourne. The event took place at the **Treasury Gardens** in the Central Business District, where community members gathered to observe one of the holiest days in the Islamic lunar calendar.
The misinformation has sparked outrage, further complicating an already tense atmosphere following the Bondi Beach tragedy. Authorities are urging the public to verify information before sharing, emphasizing the importance of responsible social media use in times of crisis.
As this situation continues to evolve, AAP FactCheck remains committed to providing accurate and timely information. The organization, an accredited member of the International Fact-Checking Network, confirms that all its articles undergo a rigorous verification process.
Stay informed and vigilant about the spread of misinformation as we navigate these challenging times. Follow AAP FactCheck on social media for the latest updates and fact-checks.
