Two men accused of attacking a Hanukkah event at Sydney's Bondi Beach had traveled to the Philippines prior to the assault, which killed 15 people and appeared to be inspired by the Islamic State, Australian police said on Tuesday (Dec 16). Sunday’s attack was Australia’s deadliest mass shooting in nearly three decades and is being investigated as a terrorist act targeting the Jewish community. The death toll now stands at 16, including one of the alleged attackers, 50-year-old Sajid Akram, who was shot by police. His 24-year-old son and alleged accomplice, reported by local media as Naveed Akram, remains in critical condition after also being shot.

Authorities said both men visited the Philippines last month, though the purpose of the trip is still under investigation. Philippine authorities are looking into the matter as well. Islamic State-linked networks are known to operate in the Philippines, particularly in the southern island of Mindanao, though their influence has waned since the 2017 Marawi siege.

“Early indications point to a terrorist attack inspired by Islamic State, allegedly committed by a father and son,” Australian Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett said, emphasizing that the attack was linked to a terrorist ideology, not a religion. Police also reported that the younger suspect’s vehicle contained improvised explosive devices and two homemade ISIS flags.

The father and son allegedly opened fire on hundreds of people at the festival during a roughly 10-minute spree, causing panic and forcing attendees to flee before police shot the suspects. About 25 survivors are receiving treatment in Sydney hospitals. Israeli Ambassador Amir Maimon visited Bondi to pay respects and urged the Australian government to protect Jewish lives in the country. He noted the fear Jewish Australians face when practicing their faith publicly.

Bondi Beach, a major tourist destination, remained largely empty on Tuesday, with a growing memorial of flowers near the Bondi Pavilion. Visitors expressed shock at the attack. Ahmed al Ahmed, a 43-year-old Muslim father who confronted one of the gunmen and seized his weapon, is hospitalized with gunshot wounds and has been hailed as a hero internationally, including by former US President Donald Trump. A GoFundMe campaign in his support has raised over A$1.9 million.

Australia’s gun laws are under renewed scrutiny, as Sajid Akram was a licensed gun owner with six registered firearms, having received his license in 2023. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke indicated that existing gun regulations need re-evaluation, while former Prime Minister John Howard stressed that combating antisemitism should remain a priority. The victims ranged from a rabbi with five children to a Holocaust survivor, and a 10-year-old girl, Matilda Britvan. Two police officers remain in critical but stable condition. Matilda’s aunt described the family’s heartbreak and disbelief at the tragedy.