Australia Hanukkah terror attack suspect seen for first time in prison

Naveed Akram, the suspect in the Bondi Beach mass shooting that killed 15 people at a Jewish festival in December 2025, appeared in Sydney's Downing Centre Local Court on Monday, February 16, 2026. Akram, appearing via video link from Goulburn Supermax prison, did not enter a plea to charges including murder and committing a terrorist act. The court appearance primarily addressed extending a gag order protecting the identities of victims and survivors. Akram's lawyer stated his client was doing as well as could be expected, with no plea intention indicated. The police investigation into the attack, allegedly inspired by the Islamic State group, is one of three official inquiries, including a royal commission. Akram is scheduled to reappear in court on April 9.

Naveed Akram, accused in the Bondi Beach shooting that killed 15 people, appeared in a Sydney court via video link for the first time since his arrest. He faces 59 charges, including murder and committing a terrorist act, related to the incident that occurred two months prior. During the brief hearing, Akram only spoke one word, confirming he understood a discussion about extending suppression orders protecting the identities of survivors. His lawyer stated it was too early to determine a plea and described the "onerous conditions" of Akram's custody in Goulburn supermax prison. Evidence presented by police includes videos from October showing Akram and his deceased father with an Islamic State group flag and engaging in firearms training. The victims of the attack included two rabbis, a Holocaust survivor, and a child. Akram's next court appearance is scheduled for April.

Naveed Akram, the 24-year-old accused of a Hanukkah terror attack in Sydney, Australia, appeared via video link from prison for a brief court hearing. He faces charges including committing a terrorist act, murder, attempted murder, and firearms offenses related to the December attack at Bondi Beach. During the hearing, a suppression order protecting victim names was extended, and Akram acknowledged the proceedings. His lawyer stated it was too early to indicate a plea, and his next court appearance is scheduled for April 8. The attack, which targeted a Jewish "Hanukkah by the Sea" celebration, is considered Australia's deadliest terror attack, and Prime Minister Albanese has described it as an ISIS-inspired atrocity. Akram's father was killed in a shootout with police at the scene.