Credited from: INDIATIMES
During a deadly shooting at Bondi Beach, Sydney, a 43-year-old fruit shop owner named Ahmed al Ahmed intervened heroically, tackling and disarming one of the attackers. Ahmed, who was a bystander at the Hanukkah celebration, sought to stop the violence when two gunmen opened fire, resulting in chaos among hundreds gathered for the event. His courageous act was captured on video, showcasing moments of intense struggle as he wrestled the weapon from the assailant, ultimately forcing the attacker to retreat. Sadly, Ahmed was shot twice in the arm and hand during the ordeal and is currently recovering in a hospital following surgery, according to India Times, South China Morning Post, and Reuters.
The tragic shooting was carried out by a father-son duo, aged 50 and 24, which resulted in the deaths of at least 16 people and injuries to many others, marking it as one of Australia's deadliest terrorist incidents. The attack has been labelled as a targeted antisemitic act, unfolding during the first day of Hanukkah celebrations. Various leaders, including Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and US President Donald Trump, praised Ahmed's bravery, emphasizing that lives were saved that day due to his quick thinking and courage, according to Channel News Asia and BBC.
In the aftermath of the shooting, Ahmed's actions have resonated across social media, leading to an outpour of support. A GoFundMe campaign was established in his honor, raising over A$200,000 in just a few hours, with prominent donations coming from figures like billionaire Bill Ackman, who contributed nearly US$100,000. Witnesses have spoken of the response of local lifeguards who also risked their safety, aiding children and victims, further highlighting the community's immediate bravery in the face of danger. Their collective heroism has been praised by many, including state premier Chris Minns, who remarked on the unparalleled heroism exhibited, as reported by South China Morning Post, Reuters, and India Times.