A Sydney man accused of launching an Islamophobic tirade at a 13-year-old girl on a bus was denied bail after a court appearance on Wednesday, during which he challenged the judge’s decision.

Omar Yassine, 50, was charged following an incident on an inner-western Sydney bus last Thursday in which he allegedly verbally abused the Muslim schoolgirl, calling her a “fucking terrorist” and an “immigrant dog” among other insults. The girl, who was wearing a hijab and her school uniform, recorded the exchange on video. The clip was subsequently shared online and sparked outrage.

Yassine appeared before Bankstown Local Court after being held overnight. He admitted to “hurling a few insults” at the girl, her friends, and someone he believed to be a teacher but denied initiating the confrontation or making threats. “All I did was raise my phone,” he told the court, responding to allegations that he had taken unauthorized photos.

The police prosecutor presented evidence against Yassine, including the video recording and highlighted his extensive criminal history—spanning 46 pages—including a recent community corrections order. Yassine was charged with stalking and intimidation with intent to cause fear.

The incident reportedly began when the girl stood up for another student in a hijab, who believed Yassine was photographing her without consent. After the verbal assault on the bus, the girl and other passengers reported the matter at Strathfield station. Police arrested Yassine at a residence in Greenacre on Tuesday, following public exposure of the incident by the girl and her mother.

During the hearing, Yassine repeatedly interrupted the police prosecutor and acting Judge Gary Still. He argued for bail, stating he was willing to report to police and did not pose a risk of reoffending. Judge Still disagreed, emphasizing the vulnerability of the young victim and Yassine’s prior offenses. “This is a vulnerable victim, a 13-year-old on public transport,” the judge said.

After bail was refused, Yassine expressed frustration toward the judge, questioning the basis for the decision.

The local MP for Strathfield, Jason Yat-sen Li, condemned the incident as “horrifying” and “deeply angry” and praised the girl for speaking out. He reaffirmed that racist and Islamophobic abuse, particularly targeting children, would not be tolerated in the community.

Yassine was not required to enter a plea and is scheduled to return to court at a later date.