Two nurses from Bankstown Hospital have been suspended following the release of a video in which they allegedly make antisemitic comments while conversing with Jewish influencer Max Veifer. In the footage, Ahmad “Rashad” Nadir and Sarah Abu Lebdeh, dressed in NSW Health uniforms, reportedly expressed hostility towards Israeli patients, with Lebdeh claiming she would refuse to treat them and stating, “I’ll kill them.” Nadir also suggested he had harmed Israeli patients.
NSW Police have initiated an investigation, with Commissioner Karen Webb expressing concern over the disturbing nature of the incident. The hospital’s administration has acted swiftly by standing down the nurses after the video was shared, which Minister Ryan Park described as “disgusting” and “appalling.” He reassured the Jewish community of their right to safe healthcare.
Nadir’s lawyer issued an apology, stating Nadir was deeply regretful and emotional about the situation. He plans to address the Jewish community publicly following his police interview. Both the Prime Minister and Federal Health Minister condemned the video, labelling it “sickening,” and emphasised the need for healthcare professionals to provide impartial care to all patients. The video’s surfacing has raised significant concerns about antisemitism in Australia, prompting calls for greater awareness and understanding of the issue.