The Islamic State (IS) terrorist group has publicly praised the two men accused of carrying out a deadly shooting at Bondi Beach last Sunday, labelling them "lions" and a "source of pride". The attack, which targeted a crowd of Jewish people celebrating the first day of Hanukkah, resulted in fifteen fatalities and left more than forty people hospitalised.
Islamic State Claims 'Inspiration' for Attack
In its weekly bulletin, Al-Naba, published on Friday, the extremist organisation lauded the alleged actions of Naveed Akram, 24, and his father Sajid, 50. The group stated the pair may have been "inspired" by its teachings, though it notably stopped short of claiming direct responsibility for the assault. The statement represents a significant development as authorities continue to investigate the motives behind Australia's deadliest mass killing since 1996.
Details of the Bondi Beach Tragedy
The shooting unfolded on Sunday at Bondi Beach, where the victims had gathered for a Hanukkah celebration. Police allege the father-and-son duo opened fire on the crowd. Sajid Akram, a licensed firearms holder, was shot dead by responding officers at the scene. His son, Naveed, was also shot by police and remains under guard in hospital, having recently awoken from a coma.
Naveed Akram now faces a total of 59 criminal charges. Fourteen of the fifteen innocent victims have been formally identified, including a ten-year-old girl. Among the deceased are heroes Boris and Sofia Gurman, who confronted one of the gunmen before losing their lives. They are expected to be laid to rest today.
Community Mourns and Investigators Probe Links
The local and national community continues to reel from the atrocity. In a powerful act of remembrance, a group of over 700 surfers paddled out at Bondi Beach to honour the fifteen lives lost. The investigation is ongoing, with counter-terrorism units examining any potential connections between the attackers and overseas extremist networks following the Islamic State's public endorsement.
While the IS statement attempts to co-opt the violence, Australian authorities are focused on supporting the victims' families, the Jewish community, and all those affected by this profound tragedy. The full scope of the investigation and any further security implications are yet to be determined.
