NSW Nurse Allegedly Involved in Threatening Behavior Fled Afghanistan and Has Recent Australian Citizenship
In a concerning incident at Bankstown Hospital, a registered nurse has been identified as being involved in a video that contains threatening language directed towards Israeli patients. The individual in question is Ahmad Rashad Nadir, who is a recent Australian citizen and originally emigrated from Afghanistan.
Details of the Incident
The alleged footage, which has garnered media attention, features Nadir alongside a female colleague during a night shift at the hospital. In the video, both individuals make threatening remarks towards Israeli patients. The female nurse, identified as Sarah Abu Lebdeh, is heard on the recording allegedly threatening to deny medical care and stating intentions to harm Israeli individuals.
In the video, Ms. Lebdeh personally directs a threatening message to Israeli social media personality Max Veifer, saying: “One day, your time will come, and you will die the most horrible death.” Meanwhile, Nadir is heard claiming: “You have no idea how many [Israelis] came to this hospital, and I sent them to Jehannam,” referring to the Islamic concept of the afterlife or hell.
Background of the Individual
Following the incident, Nadir was suspended by NSW Health pending further investigation. According to social media posts from The Helmsman Project, a nonprofit organization working to support young Australians, Nadir’s history is notable.
Nadir emigrated from Afghanistan as a child, fleeing conflict and seeking safety in Australia. An organization highlighted that he has been contributing positively within the healthcare system, working as a nurse in public hospitals while studying part-time for a master’s degree with the aim of furthering his contribution to the community.
A post from 2021 notes: “Rashad Nadir is making a difference in our public hospitals working as a nurse while studying part-time to get a master’s and continue helping his adopted country after fleeing Afghanistan.” The post also shares Nadir’s reflections on early experiences, recalling how he faced childhood discrimination and language barriers, saying, “They used to tell me ‘why you here for, go back to Afghanistan’ or ‘shut up you don’t know how to speak English’.”
Early Life and Education
As a high school student in 2015, Nadir was featured in an SBS segment highlighting a summer program at the University of Technology Sydney. His mother expressed pride in his academic pursuits, emphasizing the importance of studying in a peaceful environment.
Conclusion
The incident has raised serious questions about professional conduct and the responsibilities of healthcare workers. While Nadir’s background and journey to Australia demonstrate resilience and a desire to serve, the allegations of threatening behavior are a stark reminder of the importance of ethical conduct in healthcare settings. Ongoing investigations will determine the appropriate steps moving forward.
