A Muslim bystander is being hailed as a hero after risking his life to stop one of the gunmen during the deadly terror attack at a Hanukkah event in Sydney.
Ahmed al Ahmed, 43, a local fruit vendor and father of two, was captured on video wrestling a rifle away from one of the attackers at Bondi Beach. The unarmed Ahmed subdued the gunman and pointed the weapon at him before being shot twice in the arm by a second assailant.
Ahmed was rushed to hospital and underwent surgery. Family members said his condition is stable.
Leaders across Israel and Australia praised his actions. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called Ahmed’s bravery “the pinnacle of heroism,” while Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said his actions saved lives.
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns described the footage as “the most unbelievable scene” he had ever witnessed.
The attack, carried out by two gunmen armed with rifles, left at least 15 people dead and dozens wounded during a public Hanukkah celebration attended by thousands.
One attacker was killed by police, while the second remains in custody. Authorities said Ahmed had no prior experience with firearms.
Many believe his intervention prevented even greater loss of life, turning him into a symbol of courage and unity amid tragedy.
