Islamic State Hails Bondi Beach Shooting as ‘Matter of Pride’, Does Not Claim Responsibility

The Islamic State (ISIS) has reacted to the deadly Bondi Beach shooting in Sydney by calling the attack "a matter of pride", even as the terror group stopped short of formally claiming responsibility.

The incident, which took place during a Hanukkah celebration, claimed 15 lives and has triggered a wide-ranging investigation into possible extremist links and local networks operating in Australia.

ISIS statement on Bondi Beach attack

According to a Reuters report, ISIS made the remark in an article published on its Telegram channel, describing the mass shooting as "a matter of pride". While the group praised the act, it did not issue an official claim of responsibility for the attack.

The Reuters report noted that the attack appeared to have been inspired by Islamic State ideology, based on preliminary findings shared by Australian authorities.

Details of accused and police action

Investigators said the shooting was allegedly carried out by a father and son. One of the accused, Sajid Akram, 50, was killed during an exchange of gunfire with the police. His son, Naveed, 24, was critically injured and remained hospitalised under police guard.

After regaining consciousness from a coma, Naveed was charged with 59 offences, including murder and terror-related charges, on Wednesday. A court on Thursday confirmed that the case has been adjourned until April 2026, while police continue probing possible Australia-based Islamic State networks.

Background of Sajid Akram

Authorities said Sajid Akram was originally from Hyderabad and held an Indian passport, as earlier reported by HT. Telangana police stated that he migrated to Australia in 1998 and had "limited contact" with his relatives in Hyderabad over the last 27 years.

"It is understood that he did not travel to India even at the time of his father's demise," police said.

Australian government response and hate speech crackdown

In the aftermath of the attack, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced a crackdown on hate speech as the youngest of the 15 victims was laid to rest on Thursday. Albanese said the government was considering new laws to make it easier to charge individuals promoting hate speech and violence, Reuters reported.

The Prime Minister added that cancelling or refusing visas would be made easier and penalties would be increased. He also said authorities would maintain a list of organisations whose leaders are found to be promoting hate speech, as Australia seeks to prevent further radicalisation and violence.