A wave of national and international support has propelled a fundraiser for Ahmed al Ahmed past $2.6 million, honoring the man whose quick and fearless actions helped stop a deadly terrorist attack during a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach earlier this month.
The Dec. 14 attack, which Australian authorities are investigating as a terrorist assault targeting the Jewish community, left at least 15 people dead and dozens wounded. In the chaos of the shooting, video footage captured al Ahmed tackling one of the gunmen from behind, wrestling the firearm away, and holding the attacker at gunpoint—despite being shot twice in the process.
Al Ahmed, a Syrian-born Australian Muslim and father of two young daughters, has since been widely hailed as a hero across Australia and beyond. A GoFundMe campaign launched shortly after the attack has drawn nearly 45,000 donations, reaching $2.64 million as of Sunday morning.
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“In a moment of chaos and danger, Ahmed stepped forward without hesitation,” the fundraiser’s description reads. “His actions were selfless, instinctive, and undeniably heroic, taken without regard for his own safety.”
A Moment That Saved Lives
Footage from the scene shows al Ahmed quietly approaching the attacker as shots rang out off camera. He then lunged forward, tackling the gunman to the ground and forcibly disarming him. Witnesses say his intervention prevented further casualties during what officials describe as one of the deadliest terror attacks in modern Australian history.
Authorities later confirmed that a second gunman continued firing during the struggle, striking al Ahmed twice. Despite his injuries, he maintained control of the situation until police arrived.
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns visited al Ahmed in hospital days after the attack, crediting his “incredible bravery” with saving countless lives. “His actions represent the very best of Australia,” Minns said.
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An Outpouring of Support
Social media influencer Zachery Dereniowski, one of the fundraiser’s organizers, personally visited al Ahmed at a Sydney hospital on Friday to present him with a ceremonial check for $2.5 million, reflecting the total raised at that time.
In a video shared online, al Ahmed appeared overwhelmed, asking quietly from his hospital bed, “I deserve it?”
“Every penny,” Dereniowski replied.
The emotional exchange struck a chord online, further amplifying donations and tributes.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also visited al Ahmed and publicly praised his courage.
“You put yourself at risk to save others, running towards danger on Bondi Beach and disarming a terrorist,” Albanese wrote on X. “In the worst of times, we see the best of Australians.”
International leaders echoed those sentiments. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described al Ahmed’s actions as “brave,” while Jewish leaders in Australia called his intervention a powerful example of unity against hate.
Ongoing Investigation
Australian authorities have formally classified the shooting as a terror attack. Police say a 24-year-old man allegedly carried out the attack alongside his 50-year-old father. The father died at the scene, while the surviving suspect has been charged with multiple counts of murder and terrorism-related offenses.
Anti-terror police across New South Wales and Western Australia have since detained several individuals as part of a broader investigation into possible extremist links and support networks.
Memorials continue to grow along Bondi Beach, where surfers, swimmers, and families have returned to the shoreline in quiet tribute. Vigils led by religious leaders, including Rabbi Yossi Friedman, have honored the victims and called for peace and solidarity.
A Symbol Beyond the Tragedy
For many Australians, Ahmed al Ahmed has become a symbol of courage transcending religion, background, and fear. In the aftermath of an attack aimed at dividing a community, his actions have instead united millions in gratitude.
As al Ahmed continues his recovery, organizers say the funds will help support his family, cover medical costs, and ensure long-term stability after a moment that forever changed his life—and saved so many others.
In a tragedy marked by unimaginable loss, Australians have found hope in a single act of bravery—proof that even in the darkest moments, heroism can still shine.
