Australian federal police have confirmed that the deadly terrorist attack at Bondi Beach in Sydney was inspired by the Islamic State (IS) group. The assault, which targeted a Jewish festival, resulted in the deaths of fifteen innocent people.
Evidence Points to Terrorist Inspiration
The federal police commissioner stated that the actions of the two attackers, a father and son, were aligned with a terrorist organisation. This assessment followed the discovery of critical evidence in a vehicle registered to the younger man.
New South Wales Police confirmed the vehicle contained several improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and two homemade IS flags, providing clear indicators of terrorist intent.
Attack Details and Aftermath
The horrific incident took place at Archer Park and was swiftly declared a terrorist act. As of Tuesday afternoon, 25 people remain hospitalised, with six of those in a critical condition.
The attackers have been identified as 50-year-old Sajid Akram and his 24-year-old son, Naveed Akram. The father was shot dead by police at the scene, while his son survived his injuries and is expected to face criminal charges.
Investigation and Official Condemnation
Authorities are now investigating a trip the pair took to the Philippines last month to determine its purpose. Police are also examining a gun licence issued to the deceased father in 2023.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese strongly condemned the attack. He labelled IS a "radical perversion of Islam" and vowed that such anti-Semitic violence would fail in its goal to divide the nation.
The investigation continues as authorities work to uncover the full extent of the plot and any potential connections.
