More than $2.6 million has been raised for Ahmed al Ahmed, a Syrian-born Australian Muslim, who courageously disarmed one of the attackers during a mass shooting at a Hanukkah celebration on Bondi Beach, Sydney, on December 14, 2025. The shooting left at least 15 people dead and many others wounded.
A GoFundMe campaign launched in his honor has quickly gained momentum, raising $2.64 million from nearly 45,000 donations as of Sunday morning. Ahmed, who was one of the victims of the attack, was shot twice while attempting to protect others.
Heroic Actions Amid Chaos: Ahmed al Ahmed’s Courageous Act
The attack, which shocked Australia and the global community, unfolded in Bondi Beach, where Ahmed al Ahmed, a father of two young daughters, became a beacon of bravery. Video footage from the scene shows Ahmed tackling the gunman and wrestling the weapon away from him, all while gunfire rang out around him. He then held the attacker at gunpoint, preventing further bloodshed.
The GoFundMe campaign praises Ahmed’s selfless actions: “In a moment of chaos and danger, Ahmed al Ahmed stepped forward without hesitation. His actions were instinctive and undeniably heroic, taken without regard for his own safety.”
National and International Recognition for Ahmed al Ahmed
As the fundraising campaign reached staggering heights, Zachery Dereniowski, a social media influencer and one of the campaign’s organizers, visited Ahmed at a Sydney hospital to personally present him with a check for $2.5 million. In a video shared on social media, Ahmed appeared visibly overwhelmed by the support, asking, “I deserve it?” to which Dereniowski replied, “Every penny.”
The Prime Minister of Australia, Anthony Albanese, also visited Ahmed, calling him an “Australian hero.” Albanese shared a message on X, stating, “You put yourself at risk to save others, running towards danger on Bondi Beach and disarming a terrorist. In the worst of times, we see the best of Australians. And that’s exactly what we saw on Sunday night. On behalf of every Australian, I say thank you.”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also praised Ahmed’s bravery, calling his actions “incredibly brave.” Chris Minns, the Premier of New South Wales, echoed this sentiment, noting that Ahmed’s heroism likely saved countless lives.
The Tragic Attack: A Targeted Terror Event
The Australian government is treating the shooting as a terror attack, with officials confirming that the assault was aimed specifically at the Jewish community. Investigations are ongoing, and a 24-year-old man has been charged with murder in connection with the attack. His 50-year-old father, also believed to be involved in the attack, died at the scene.
A Tribute to the Victims of the Bondi Beach Shooting
In the wake of this horrific event, the Jewish community has come together to mourn the loss of lives and honor the victims. Rabbi Yossi Friedman led a tribute for the victims of the Hanukkah celebration shooting on December 20, 2025, at Bondi Beach, where many gathered to remember those who were killed.
The tragedy has left the Australian nation in shock, but Ahmed al Ahmed’s courageous actions serve as a powerful reminder of the resilience and bravery that can emerge even in the darkest moments.
What’s Next for the Investigation?
Authorities in Australia are continuing their investigation into the attack, and the Australian government is working alongside international agencies to assess any broader security threats. The motive behind the terror attack remains unclear, but officials are committed to holding those responsible accountable.