Australian authorities have revealed that Naveed and Sajid Akram, the alleged perpetrators of the Bondi Beach massacre, received military-style training overseas just weeks before the attack. The father and son reportedly travelled to the southern Philippines, a region known for its long-standing militant activity, where they are suspected to have strengthened ties with international jihadist networks. Investigators are examining their connections to Australia's pro-Islamic State network, including links to convicted terrorists and radical spiritual leaders. Evidence found at the scene, such as an IS-style flag, has intensified scrutiny of their motives and affiliations.

Naveed Akram had previously been monitored by national security agencies following the arrest of a prominent Islamic State operative in 2019, but at the time, authorities found no evidence of radicalisation. Recent developments suggest both men pledged allegiance to the extremist group before carrying out the deadly attack on a Jewish Hanukkah celebration, which claimed fifteen lives. Disturbing footage has also surfaced showing Naveed preaching radical Islam on Sydney streets as a teenager, further highlighting his longstanding ideological leanings. While Naveed remains under police guard in hospital, his father was shot dead by police at the scene.