Bondi Beach Terror Attack: Two Indian Students Hospitalised, Three Injured as Probe Points to Islamic State Influence

Sydney: At least three Indian international students were among those injured in the horrific Bondi Beach shooting, which Australian authorities have officially classified as a terrorist incident, according to local media reports. Of the three students, two are believed to be receiving treatment at a hospital, while the condition of the third is being monitored.

The Australia Today newspaper reported that while the investigation is progressing rapidly, officials have not yet disclosed the identities of the injured Indian students or provided detailed updates on their medical condition. Authorities have cited Privacy concerns and the ongoing victim identification process as reasons for withholding specific information.

Preliminary reports suggest that the students sustained injuries to their legs and thighs during the attack. Local sources indicate that emergency responders acted swiftly, and officials are in the process of notifying families as the full scope of casualties continues to be verified.

Australian officials have confirmed that consular assistance is being extended wherever foreign nationals are involved. Dedicated support services, including trauma counselling, translation assistance, and liaison with embassies, are being made available to international students and their families affected by the tragedy.

Authorities have urged the public and media outlets to exercise restraint and avoid circulating unverified information regarding victims. Officials stressed that accuracy is critical as investigators work to confirm identities and inform next of kin in a sensitive and respectful manner.

To ensure seamless coordination, Australian investigators are working closely with foreign governments and diplomatic missions. The administration has underlined the importance of safeguarding the privacy and dignity of victims and their families during what has been described as an extremely distressing period.

The shooting took place on the first evening of Hanukkah during the popular “Hanukkah by the Sea” event near Campbell Parade at Bondi Beach. Hundreds of people had gathered for the celebration when the assailants, identified as 24-year-old Naveed Akram and his 50-year-old father, opened fire shortly before 7 pm on Sunday evening.

Police confirmed that the younger attacker is currently in hospital in serious condition, while his father—who reportedly held six licensed firearms—was shot dead by responding officers. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos and fear as attendees fled for safety and emergency services rushed to contain the unfolding crisis.

The terror attack has left at least 40 people injured and claimed 15 lives, including that of a 10-year-old child. Among the injured are several police officers, with two reported to be in serious but stable condition, while five others remain critical.

Terrorist Classification and Islamic State Angle Under Investigation

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed that the Bondi Beach shooting has been officially classified as a terrorist incident. In a statement, he said that investigators are examining evidence suggesting possible ideological links to the Islamic State.

“What we know already is that this goes to motive,” the Prime Minister stated, reiterating the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of all residents, visitors, and international students. He emphasized that a thorough and transparent investigation is underway to determine the circumstances leading to the attack.

Investigators have reportedly recovered materials, including Islamic State flags, from locations linked to the suspects. Authorities are carefully analysing this evidence to establish the extent of any extremist influence and whether the attack was inspired or directed by terror ideology.

The ongoing inquiry continues to piece together the sequence of events before and during the shooting. law enforcement agencies remain on high alert and are working around the clock to gather intelligence, interview witnesses, and assess digital and physical evidence.

Officials have assured the public that timely updates will be provided as verified information becomes available. The Australian government has once again reaffirmed its resolve to combat terrorism, support victims, and ensure justice for those affected by the devastating Bondi Beach attack.