Sydney Hostages Rescued: Three People Reported Dead (VIDEOS)

The Lindt Chocolat Cafe, a popular destination in downtown Sydney, has been the scene of a Sydney hostage on Monday. The suspect identified as Man Haron Monis, an Iranian also known for sending hate mail to the families of fallen soldiers, was reported dead including two others, as heavily armed Australian police stormed the cafe after 16 hours of standoff.

During the siege, hostages were forced to display an Islamic flag, igniting fears of a jihadist attack.

News footage showed hostages holding up a black and white flag displaying the Shahada – a testament to the faith of Muslims. The flag has been popular among Sunni Islamist militant groups such as Islamic State and al Qaeda.

At least five hostages were released or escaped on Monday.

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