Ahmed al-Ahmed hailed as hero after tackling Bondi Beach shooter during Hanukkah celebration
Ahmed al-Ahmed, a 43-year-old Australian citizen of Syrian origin, intervened heroically during the Bondi Beach attack, which killed at least 16 people including one of the gunmen. The incident occurred during a Hanukkah celebration, where al-Ahmed wrestled the gun from the alleged shooter after the attacker ran out of ammunition.
Sustaining multiple gunshot wounds to his shoulder in the process, al-Ahmed is currently in critical but stable condition at St George Hospital in Sydney and has undergone surgeries. Footage from the attack shows al-Ahmed rushing the shooter and disarming him, an act that has been widely praised.
Relatives describe al-Ahmed’s actions as humanitarian and driven by conscience, emphasizing that he could not bear to see people dying. Supporters and family highlight their close, supportive bonds and express pride in his courageous behavior. Al-Ahmed’s parents recently moved to Sydney from Idlib, Syria, and had not seen him since he left Syria in 2006.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, the NSW Premier, and the US President have all hailed Ahmed al-Ahmed as a hero. Albanese noted his bravery as an example of Australians coming together in times of crisis. The community has highlighted his Syrian heritage with pride, honoring his bravery and selflessness during the attack.
