Gunman Charged with 15 Murders After Bondi Beach Mass Shooting

A suspected gunman involved in the deadly attack at Sydney’s Bondi Beach has been charged with a total of 59 offenses, including 15 counts of murder. The assault, which occurred on Sunday, targeted members of the Jewish community celebrating Hanukkah, resulting in 15 fatalities and numerous injuries.

On April 8, 2026, Naveed Akram, 24, will face court following his arrest while in a hospital recovering from injuries sustained during the incident. His older brother, **Sajid Akram**, aged 50, was pronounced dead at the scene. The charges against Naveed Akram comprise one count of murder for each victim, one count for committing a terrorist act, and an additional 40 counts of causing harm with intent to murder. These latter charges relate to injuries inflicted upon other victims and the discovery of improvised explosive devices in the Akram brothers’ vehicle.

New South Wales police have classified the shooting as a terrorist attack, allegedly inspired by **Islamic State**. They stated that the actions of the accused were intended to promote a religious cause and instill fear within the community.

The mass shooting took place during a gathering attended by over **1,000 people** on the first night of Hanukkah. Among the deceased were **Eli Schlanger**, a British-born rabbi, and **Alex Kleytman**, a Holocaust survivor. Tragically, the youngest victim was only **10 years old**. This incident marks the deadliest mass shooting in Australia since 1996, when a gunman killed **35 individuals** in Port Arthur, Tasmania. The aftermath of that attack led to Australia implementing some of the strictest gun control laws globally.

Authorities reported that **Sajid Akram** legally acquired the firearms used in the assault. In response to the tragedy, Australian Prime Minister **Anthony Albanese** has indicated he is exploring options to tighten existing gun control measures. He stated, “The government is prepared to take whatever action is necessary, including the need for tougher gun laws.” Proposed changes may include limiting gun ownership to Australian citizens, which would have affected Sajid Akram, who migrated to Australia on a student visa in **1998** and later became a permanent resident after marrying an Australian citizen. His brother, Naveed, is a natural-born Australian citizen.

Funerals for the victims began this week, attracting significant police presence to ensure public safety. A vigil was held on Tuesday night to honor the youngest victim, **Matilda**, while **twenty individuals** remain hospitalized with injuries related to the shooting.

The attack has reignited concerns regarding rising antisemitism in Australia. In a video message following the shooting, Prime Minister Albanese expressed solidarity with the Jewish community, stating, “As Prime Minister, I say on behalf of all Australians to the Jewish community, we stand with you.” He condemned the act as one of “evil antisemitism.”

Israeli Prime Minister **Benjamin Netanyahu** responded to the attack, asserting that Australia must confront the rising tide of antisemitism more forcefully. He noted that inaction from leaders can embolden hatred and stated, “Antisemitism is a cancer that spreads when leaders remain silent.”

As the investigation continues, the community grapples with the tragic loss of life and seeks answers to prevent such incidents in the future.