Sarah Abu Lebdeh and Ahmad Rashad Nadir, two former nurses from Bankstown-Lidcombe Hospital, have sparked a national outcry following the emergence of a video showing them allegedly making violent threats towards Israeli patients.
The video, posted by Israeli influencer Max Veifer, shows the pair discussing their refusal to treat Israeli patients and even threatening to kill them.
On March 19, the two faced court for the first time, with both entering the Downing Centre Local Court in Sydney under heavy security.
Supporters of Abu Lebdeh shielded her from cameras as she left, while Nadir appeared without comment. Neither defendant spoke during the brief court appearance, which was adjourned until May.
It is reported that Nadir’s lawyer, Zemarai Khatiz, announced plans to apply for the video to be excluded from the case, arguing that it was recorded without Nadir’s consent.
If successful, the move could significantly weaken the prosecution’s case, leaving little evidence to support the charges.
Abu Lebdeh, 26, faces charges including threatening violence to a group and using a carriage service to menace, harass, or cause offence. Nadir, 27, has been charged with similar offences and possession of a prohibited drug.
The duo has been barred from practising as nurses by Australia’s health practitioner watchdog, with their registrations suspended by the NSW Nursing and Midwifery Council.
Both nurses remain on bail with strict conditions, including restrictions on social media use and leaving Australia. Their case is expected to be heard in the District Court, where they could face a jury trial and stiffer penalties.
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