Reports have emerged that among the wounded in Sunday’s attack at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, are Indian nationals. According to initial reports, three Indian international students were injured in what has been termed a terrorist attack at Bondi Beach. At least two of the students are currently undergoing treatment in the hospital.
According to Australia Today, the students sustained injuries to their thighs and legs during the shooting; however, there is no official confirmation yet of their identities and health conditions.
Australia’s Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, has declared this incident a terrorist attack. He expressed suspicion of the Islamic State’s involvement behind the attack, stating that investigative agencies are delving into such evidence.
Pakistani-born Sajid Akram and his son, Naveed Akram, targeted Sydney's Bondi Beach amidst a gathering of thousands celebrating the Jewish festival of Hanukkah.
The duo carried out a rapid shooting spree that resulted in 15 deaths and dozens of injuries. Among the deceased was a 10-year-old girl. During the ordeal, the father was killed, while the injured Naveed is receiving treatment under police custody. Sydney Police have confirmed this was a terrorist attack targeting the Jewish community.
The Bondi Beach attack has raised numerous questions about Australia’s security agencies and police response. Eyewitnesses claim the attackers fired freely for over 10 minutes without hindrance.
The nearby police station failed to act immediately to prevent the incident, and when police finally arrived at the scene, their response was markedly delayed. An eyewitness told the news agency AFP that officers seemed petrified.
Israel has expressed significant outrage over the targeting of Jews. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accused Australian PM Anthony Albanese of 'fostering terror.'
