Iran accuses ‘Israel’ of staging Bondi Beach attack
Note: AI technology was used to generate this article’s audio.
- Iranian military chief accuses ‘Israel’ of orchestrating a Sydney attack to fuel antisemitism claims.
- Australian authorities have not linked the incident to any foreign state.
A senior Iranian military official has accused ‘Israel’ of being behind the Sydney attack that took place earlier this month, framing the incident as a deliberate attempt to project an image of antisemitism and distract from internal pressures.
Read more: Iran says Swedish citizen on trial over espionage during war with ‘Israel’
Speaking at a graduation ceremony for officers of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, Iranian Chief of Staff Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi claimed the attack was a “deceptive operation” carried out by ‘Israel’, according to Iran’s state television.
Allegations of a “false-flag” operation
Mousavi said the targeting of Jewish celebrants in Sydney was designed to “manufacture an antisemitic image” and influence global public opinion. He alleged the attack aimed to curb what he described as reverse migration and to calm internal unrest.
“As you saw days ago, the Zionist regime shot itself,” Mousavi said. “This terrorist attack was carried out to prevent reverse migration, ease internal disturbances, and spread an antisemitic narrative.”
Read more: ‘Israel’ warns US Iran missile drill could be “cover” for surprise attack: Axios
He added that ‘Israel’ had, in his words, carried out similar operations in the past to portray itself internationally as a victim.
The Sydney incident
The attack occurred on Dec. 14 during Hanukkah celebrations at Bondi Beach in New South Wales. Casualty figures were reported in local media, though Australian authorities have not confirmed any foreign involvement in the attack.
Hanukkah commemorates the victory of the Maccabees over the Seleucid Empire in 165 BCE and is observed this year from December 14 to 22.
Australian officials haven't responded publicly to Mousavi’s claims, and no evidence has been presented to support allegations linking ‘Israel’ to the attack.
Read more: Australia charges Bondi Beach shooter with terrorism after deadly attack
Public response
Australian media highlighted the actions of Ahmad al-Ahmad, a Syrian man who intervened during the attack disarmed one of the assailants, an act credited with limiting further harm.
The Iranian statements come amid heightened regional tensions and follow a pattern of sharp rhetoric between Tehran and ‘Israel’, particularly since the 'Israeli' war on Gaza.
Read more: Sydney attack donations exceed $1.5m for Ahmad Al-Ahmad
