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Contains upsetting scenes.
Hero bystander hospitalized after confronting shooter
The family of Ahmed al Ahmed, 43, revealed he underwent surgery for gunshot wounds sustained while wrestling a weapon from one of the Bondi Beach attackers. The father of two has been widely praised for his actions during Sunday's deadly rampage.
The attack
Fifteen people were killed and dozens injured when two gunmen opened fire at a Hanukkah celebration. Police confirmed the incident as a terrorist attack targeting the Jewish community. The assailants, identified as 50-year-old Sajid Akram and his 24-year-old son Naveed, were both armed. Sajid died at the scene, while Naveed remains in critical condition.
Ahmed's intervention
Footage verified by the BBC shows Ahmed al Ahmed, a fruit shop owner, sprinting toward one of the gunmen. He tackled the attacker, seized the weapon, and forced him to retreat before raising his hands to signal he was not a threat. The gunman later retrieved another firearm and resumed firing.
Ahmed's cousin, Mustafa, told 7News Australia that Ahmed was shot in the arm and hand. His parents, who arrived in Sydney from Syria two months ago, told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation their son was struck four or five times.
Family speaks out
Ahmed's parents described their son as selfless, emphasizing he acted without regard for the victims' backgrounds. "He doesn't discriminate between one nationality and another," his father said. "Especially here in Australia, there's no difference between one citizen and another."
The family last saw Ahmed in 2006 when he immigrated to Australia. They expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support but remain anxious about his recovery.
Public recognition
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns visited Ahmed in the hospital, calling him a "real-life hero" whose bravery "saved countless lives." Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese echoed the sentiment, praising those who "ran toward danger to help others."
U.S. President Donald Trump also commended Ahmed during a White House event, stating he had "great respect" for the man's courage.
Fundraising efforts
A GoFundMe campaign for Ahmed surpassed $1 million by Monday evening. U.S. billionaire William Ackman, CEO of Pershing Square Capital Management, contributed A$99,999 (US$65,000) to the fund, calling Ahmed a "brave hero."
