More than $1 million in donations pour in for Ahmed al Ahmed, hero who tackled Bondi Beach gunman

Ahmed al Ahmed, the man who confronted a gunman at Bondi Beach, has received over $1.5 million AUD (over $1 million USD) in donations. The outpouring of support comes after al Ahmed, a Syrian-Australian Muslim, bravely intervened during the attack on Sunday.

Witnessing the violence unfold near Hanukkah celebrations, al Ahmed, 44, acted quickly. Video footage shows him approaching one of the shooters and disarming him. His actions have been widely praised in Australia, a nation mourning the loss of 15 lives in what authorities are calling a hate-fueled attack.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese visited al Ahmed in the hospital, lauding him as an example of Australian bravery and humanity. "At a moment where we have seen evil perpetrated, he shines out as an example of the strength of humanity," Albanese said.

The online fundraising campaign, started by Australians who had never met al Ahmed, quickly gained traction. By Tuesday night, approximately 40,000 individuals had donated, including billionaire hedge fund manager William Ackman, who pledged AU$99,000.

Al Ahmed, a shop owner and father of two young daughters, is currently recovering from multiple gunshot wounds to his left arm. Lubaba alhmidi Alkahil, a spokesperson for the Australians for Syria Association, reported that he is conscious but weak and faces a recovery period of at least six months. He has already undergone surgery, with more planned.

Despite his injuries, those who have spoken with al Ahmed say he remains humble. New South Wales Premier Chris Minns said that al Ahmed told him he would repeat his actions if faced with the same situation. He has received visits from numerous Australian leaders, and floral tributes have accumulated outside his store in suburban Sydney.

Al Ahmed's bravery has also been recognized internationally, with praise coming from leaders such as U.S. President Donald Trump and Australia's Governor General. His cousin, Mohammad al Ahmed, noted that al Ahmed lived in Nayrab, Syria, before immigrating to Australia in 2006, prior to the Syrian civil war. His parents, who recently arrived in Sydney, revealed that he had previously served in the Syrian police and security forces. His father stated that his son’s “conscience and soul” compelled him to act.

Other acts of heroism emerged from the Bondi Beach tragedy. Boris and Sofia Gurman, a married couple, were killed trying to stop one of the shooters. Reuven Morrison, 62, was also killed while attempting to protect others. These acts of courage, alongside al Ahmed's, have been cited as examples of Australian values.