US Intelligence Chief Sparks Firestorm Over "Islamising Australia" Claims Following Deadly Sydney Attack
US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard faces mounting criticism after linking the deadly Bondi Beach terrorist attack to what she described as the “Islamisation of Australia” through mass immigration. The controversial remarks, posted on social media platform X on December 17, 2025, came days after two gunmen killed 15 people and wounded over 40 others during a Hanukkah celebration at Sydney’s Bondi Beach on December 15. The attack has ignited an international political storm over immigration policy, terrorism, and religious extremism.
Gabbard’s Controversial Statement Draws Global Attention
Writing from her position as America’s top intelligence official, Gabbard declared the attack “should not come as a surprise to anyone,” attributing it to “the massive influx of Islamists to Australia”. “Their goal is not only the Islamization of Australia but the entire world, including the United States,” Gabbard stated in her social media post. She added a stark warning: “It is probably too late for Europe—and maybe Australia,” while asserting it is “not too late for the United States of America”.
The intelligence chief praised President Donald Trump for “prioritizing securing our borders and deporting known and suspected terrorists, and stopping mass, unvetted migration that puts Americans at risk”. Her comments directly linked immigration policies to the terrorist incident, a connection that has drawn criticism for potentially stigmatizing entire communities.
Australia’s Deadliest Shooting in Decades
Sajid Akram, 50, and his son Naveed Akram, 24, opened fire on approximately 1,000 people gathered for a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach. The father was shot dead at the scene, while the younger Akram survived and now faces 59 offences, including 15 counts of murder and one count of committing a terrorist act. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed the attack “appears to have been motivated by Islamic State group ideology”.
New South Wales Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon designated the shooting a terrorist incident. Investigators discovered two rudimentary improvised explosive devices in the suspects’ vehicle and a third at the scene, which were safely removed by the bomb squad.
Australian Response and Intelligence Review
Prime Minister Albanese denounced the assault as an “act of evil antisemitism” and announced a comprehensive review of police and national intelligence agencies. “The horrific act inspired by ISIS last Sunday highlights the swiftly evolving security landscape in our country,” Albanese stated, adding that “our security agencies need to be optimally prepared to react”. The intelligence review is expected to conclude by April 2026.
The Australian National Imams Council and the Council of Imams NSW issued statements unequivocally condemning the shootings. “These acts of violence and crimes have no place in our society,” their joint statement declared, urging “all Australians, including the Australian Muslim community, to stand together in unity, compassion, and solidarity”.
Security and Community Tensions
Australia’s terror threat level remains at “probable,” the third-highest of five levels, indicating a 50 percent likelihood of an attack within the following year. The government has unveiled initiatives to tighten gun regulations, while New South Wales officials advocate for stricter measures against hate speech. As investigations continue, the international debate over immigration, extremism, and community cohesion intensifies, with Gabbard’s comments amplifying tensions between security concerns and religious tolerance.