December 17th, 2025 - Bondi Beach Shooting Suspect Charged With Murder and Terrorism

The surviving suspect in the deadly mass shooting at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, was charged on Wednesday with multiple crimes, including murder, terrorism, and causing grievous bodily harm with intent to murder. The attack, which occurred during a Hanukkah celebration, left 15 people dead and dozens more injured. The two gunmen, a father and son, were confronted by police; the father was killed at the scene, while the son, 24-year-old Naveed Akram, was taken to a hospital in critical condition. He remains hospitalized under police guard, with charges expected to be brought against him.

The shooting, which authorities have described as an act of terrorism, was reportedly motivated by Islamic State-inspired antisemitism. Police found two black Islamic State flags and improvised explosive devices in the vehicle used by the attackers. Investigators are also looking into the suspects' recent trip to the southern Philippines, where Islamist militant groups with ties to the Islamic State have been active. However, Philippine officials have denied that the suspects received any training there.

As the investigation continues, the first funerals for the victims began on Wednesday. Rabbi Eli Schlanger, one of the main organizers of the Hanukkah event, was among those mourned. His family expressed that the attackers aimed to instill fear in the Jewish community, but Rabbi Schlanger would have urged them to stand strong and continue living proudly as Jews. His message was echoed by others in the community, who vowed to rise above the hate that fueled the attack.

Among the other victims was a 10-year-old girl, identified as Matilda, whose funeral is scheduled for Thursday. In addition to the fatalities, several people were injured in the attack, including two police officers. One of the officers, just four months into his probationary period, lost vision in one eye. As of Wednesday, 20 people remained in the hospital, with some still in critical condition.

The attack has sparked public outcry, with many criticizing the government of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for its response to the rise in antisemitic attacks in Australia. Former treasurer Josh Frydenberg, a member of the conservative Liberal Party, accused the government of abandoning the Jewish community. However, Prime Minister Albanese defended his record, highlighting the appointment of Australia's first antisemitism envoy and the passing of legislation to criminalize hate speech.

In the wake of the attack, Australian officials announced plans to strengthen gun laws and prevent large protests following terrorist incidents. The government’s response also includes a proposal to restrict mass demonstrations, such as the one that took place in August, which saw demonstrators supporting Palestinians in Gaza take over the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Premier Chris Minns emphasized that protests at this time would be divisive and could further harm the community.

Word of the Day (Merriam-Webster) - Espouse (verb, ih-SPOWZ) - To espouse an ideology, belief, etc., is to take it up and support it as a cause. Espouse is usually encountered in formal speech and writing.

Example: The article explores some of the lesser-known viewpoints espoused by the charismatic leader.

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