The terrorist attack on Bondi Beach in Sydney has sent shockwaves throughout Australia. The assailants, reportedly of Pakistani origin, have been identified by Australian security agencies as Sajid Akram, aged 50, and his 24-year-old son, Naveed Akram. This terrifying reality showcases how a father could involve his son in an extremist attack for the cause of Islamic Jihad.
The attack on Bondi Beach, where the Jewish community was celebrating their annual festival, lasted ten harrowing minutes with continuous gunfire, delivering a chilling warning to the world beyond just a mere act of terrorism.
Echoes of Pahalgam
The distressing images from Bondi Beach resemble the Pahalgam attack earlier this year, demonstrating a pattern where terrorists, having asked about their religion, ruthlessly slaughtered Hindus. In this attack, Jews were targeted solely based on their faith, proving yet again that terrorism knows no religion, even though the victims certainly do.
The Shocking Father-Son Duo
The most alarming aspect of the attack is its orchestrators—a father-son team. Social media buzzes with disbelief about a father committing such violence with his son, but investigators reveal that Naveed Akram was even more radical than his father. Their relationship paints a grim picture of fanaticism.
Source: aajtak
Sajid Akram's Journey to Australia
According to New South Wales Police, Sajid Akram came to Australia on a student visa in 1998. He married an Australian woman in 2001, which eventually led to a partner visa. He received a Resident Return Visa (RRV) three times after this—a privilege granted to those who leave and re-enter Australia. While Naveed Akram was born in Australia and held citizenship, he proved more extremist than his father.
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IS Connections and Intelligence Concerns
In 2019, police arrested Islamic State terrorist Isaac Al-Matari, who proclaimed himself as the IS's Australian Commander. Even then, agencies suspected Naveed Akram might be linked to IS operatives. Allegedly connected to Pakistani terrorists, Naveed was perceived as a threat, yet the inaction allowed him to orchestrate this attack with his father.
The Gun Club Conspiracy
Further investigations revealed that Naveed Akram, having dropped out of school, was a bricklayer. The scheme unfurled concurrent with the Gaza conflict between Israel and Hamas. Another shocking revelation was Sajid Akram's membership in a gun club, granting him six licensed firearms, used in the attack.
Extremism's Frightening Face
During the gunfight where Sajid Akram was killed, Naveed continued shooting while shouting anti-Semitic slurs. A ten-year-old girl tragically lost her life. Such is the terrifying face of extremism.
Australian Prime Minister's Firm Stance
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese denounced the attack as intolerable, pledging a thorough investigation and a firm commitment to eradicating terrorism.
Source: aajtak
Pakistan Connections and Global Hypocrisy
When attacks like Mumbai's 26/11, Uri, Pulwama, and Pahalgam happened, India warned the world about Pakistan's terror networks. Today, with similar ties unraveling in Australia, global reactions deem this a grave threat, exposing double standards.
IS Flag and IEDs Seized
New South Wales Police found an IS flag and two improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in the terrorists' vehicle. Had they detonated, the devastation could have been far greater. However, security forces diligently neutralized the bombs.
Targeting Jews
Bondi Beach, a popular venue for Jews during Hanukkah, became a target when terrorists claimed they were going fishing but intended to attack, with an IS flag on their vehicle. IS emerged during the Iraq conflict in 2003, aspiring to establish an Islamic caliphate. There's speculation that Sajid and Naveed's handlers might have connections in Pakistan.
Israel's Warning and Scrutiny on Australia
In the aftermath, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticized the Australian government, noting that hate against Jews is spreading like cancer. He claimed to have previously warned that pro-Palestine policies could escalate anti-Semitic attacks in Australia.
Source: aajtak
Hanukkah Celebration Turns to Tragedy
As the Jewish community celebrated Hanukkah, terrorists struck. This festival commemorates the miracle of the Temple's menorah burning for eight days after the Greeks' defeat. This year, thousands gathered at Bondi Beach when disaster struck, resulting in 16 deaths and 42 injuries.
Terrorists Target Festivals
Jews celebrating Simchat Torah in Israel faced Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023. Vacationers in Pahalgam endured similar attacks on April 22. The pattern is clear: terrorists attack during festivals and holidays, preying on unarmed crowds.
Source: aajtak
Accusations of Muslim Appeasement
The Sydney attack is viewed as a consequence of Australia appeasing Muslims, particularly after recognizing Palestine as a nation at the UN on September 21. Anti-Jewish protests have increased without governmental intervention, further fueling public anger.
Critics accuse Anthony Albanese's Labor Party of seeking Muslim votes in urban areas, biasing policies. Protests at Sydney's Opera House without consequent action have sparked outrage, suggesting appeasement led to this attack.
Communal Discord and the Pig's Head Incident
Following the attack, communal discord surged with pig heads discovered in a Sydney cemetery, sparking outrage among Muslims.
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Australian Muslims' Firm Stance
Australian Muslims disavow these terrorists as Islamic representatives, refusing to bury or honor them with funeral rites. They assert collective blame is unfounded and incorrect.
If all Muslims were culpable, there would be hundreds, not 16, fatalities.
Ahmed Al-Ahmed: A Muslim Hero
Ahmed Al-Ahmed heroically disarmed Naveed Akram, saving countless lives. A Muslim, Ahmed, took on the armed attacker at immense personal risk, suffering injuries yet ensuring safety for many Jews. His message to his family was, "If I die, let them know I died saving lives."
Two Contrasting Paths
Ahmed Al-Ahmed, a Muslim, is hailed as a hero for risking his life to save others. In stark contrast, Sajid and Naveed Akram commit atrocities in faith's name. Ahmed, a humble fruit vendor in Australia, is celebrated globally. His story emphasizes learning from those misguided by jihad: no religion endorses killing.
