Bondi Beach Mass Shooting: Father and Son Linked to ISIS, Traveled to Philippines

Post by : Saif Nasser

Australia is reeling after a tragic mass shooting at Bondi Beach in Sydney, one of the country’s most popular tourist spots. Police say the two alleged attackers were inspired by the Islamic State (ISIS) and had traveled to the Philippines before carrying out the attack. The shooting targeted a Hanukkah celebration, leaving 15 people dead and several others injured. This marks the deadliest mass shooting in Australia in nearly three decades.

Authorities identified the suspects as 50-year-old Sajid Akram and his 24-year-old son, Naveed Akram. Sajid was killed by police during the attack, while Naveed remains in critical condition. Police also found improvised explosive devices and two homemade ISIS flags in the younger suspect’s vehicle, suggesting a clear terrorist motive.

Australian Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett said the attack was committed by individuals linked to a terrorist organization, not a religion. The father and son allegedly fired on hundreds of people over about ten minutes, forcing attendees to flee and hide. Around 25 survivors are currently receiving care in hospitals across Sydney.

The victims include a rabbi, a Holocaust survivor, and a 10-year-old girl named Matilda Britvan. Families have expressed shock and heartbreak over the loss of loved ones.

At Bondi Beach, a memorial of flowers has grown near the site of the attack. Israeli Ambassador Amir Maimon visited, calling for stronger protection for the Jewish community in Australia. He said, “Australians of Jewish faith are forced to worship behind closed doors with CCTV and guards.”

Amid the tragedy, acts of bravery have emerged. Ahmed al Ahmed, a 43-year-old Muslim father, confronted one of the gunmen and seized his rifle. He was injured in the process and remains hospitalized. His heroism has been recognized globally, and a GoFundMe campaign supporting him has raised over A$1.9 million ($1.26 million).

The attack has renewed scrutiny of Australia’s gun laws. Sajid Akram legally owned six firearms, having received a licence in 2023. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said laws introduced after the 1996 Port Arthur massacre need review. Former Prime Minister John Howard warned that addressing gun laws alone should not distract from combating antisemitism, which has risen in Australia in recent months.

Police are also investigating the suspects’ travel to the Philippines, where ISIS-linked networks are known to operate in small cells in southern Mindanao. The incident highlights the ongoing threat of extremist ideology and the need for vigilance.

As Australia mourns, leaders and communities are calling for stronger protections for vulnerable groups, tighter gun regulations, and continuous efforts to counter terrorism and hate-driven violence.