Pakistan Rejects Allegations in Bondi Beach Attack, Accuses India and Israel of Defamation

Addressing reporters, Tarar said Pakistan was being unfairly blamed for the December 14 attack without any supporting evidence. He described the allegations as part of a “deliberate conspiracy by hostile countries” aimed at damaging Pakistan’s international image. According to him, a false narrative was amplified through social and electronic media platforms in India and Israel soon after the incident.

Tarar questioned how the reputational damage caused by what he termed “fake news” would be addressed, and whether those responsible would offer an apology or face legal consequences. He praised Australian authorities for conducting what he called a professional and responsible investigation, noting that Canberra had refrained from blaming any country in the absence of verified proof. Reiterating Islamabad’s official position, Tarar said Pakistan “unequivocally condemns terrorism in all its forms” and has consistently supported global counter-terrorism efforts.

Australian investigators have identified the attacker as Sajid Akram, a 50-year-old Indian national originally from Hyderabad, Telangana. Akram moved to Australia in 1998 on a student visa, later settled there, and continued to hold an Indian passport. He was shot dead by police during the attack, which killed at least 15 people and injured more than 40. His son, Naveed Akram, an Australian citizen, was also injured.

Indian authorities have stated that Akram had no criminal record in India. Family members told Indian media they had severed ties with him years ago and were unaware of any radicalisation. Reports also indicate Akram last visited India in 2022 and had limited contact with relatives.

The Bondi Beach attack occurred during Hanukkah celebrations, prompting heightened security alerts in Australia. Investigations into the motive and possible international links are ongoing.