Australian authorities are treating the deadly Bondi Beach shooting as a terrorist attack, following evidence suggesting the alleged attackers were inspired by the Islamic State (ISIL/ISIS). The incident, which occurred during a Hanukkah celebration at Sydney’s famous Bondi Beach, left 15 people dead and around 25 others injured, some critically.

Father and Son Suspects Identified

Police say the alleged attackers were a father-and-son duo: 50-year-old Sajid Akram, who was shot dead by officers at the scene, and his 24-year-old son Naveed Akram, who remains in critical condition in hospital.

Australian Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett emphasized that the attack reflected alignment with a terrorist organization, not a religion:

“These are the alleged actions of those who have aligned themselves with a terrorist organisation, not a religion.”

Evidence of ISIL Influence

Investigators found homemade ISIL flags and an improvised explosive device in the suspects’ vehicle, further indicating terrorist motivation. Officials are also examining a recent trip the pair took to the Philippines, though authorities have not yet confirmed the purpose or locations visited. Philippine police are cooperating in the ongoing investigation.

ISIL-linked groups are known to operate in parts of the southern Philippines, particularly on Mindanao island, though their capabilities are far weaker than during the 2017 Marawi siege, which resulted in over 1,000 deaths.

Deadliest Mass Shooting in Australia in Nearly 30 Years

The Bondi Beach attack is considered Australia’s deadliest mass shooting in nearly three decades, reigniting discussions about public safety, counter-terrorism, and gun control laws. Survivors described a 10-minute ordeal as the attackers opened fire on hundreds of people attending the festival.

New South Wales Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon confirmed that investigations into the father-son duo’s motives and the specifics of their Philippines trip remain ongoing.

National and International Response

Authorities have called for vigilance and cooperation with international partners to prevent similar attacks. The incident underscores the continuing influence of ISIL-inspired extremism, even in regions far from the group’s traditional strongholds.