Australia is honouring a hero in the aftermath of the nation’s deadliest mass shooting in decades. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese visited Ahmed al Ahmed in hospital on Tuesday praising his courage during the deadly attack at Bondi Beach.
On Sunday a father and son opened fire during a Jewish Hanukkah festival killing 15 people and injuring dozens. Amid the chaos Ahmed a Syrian born fruit seller ducked between parked cars and wrestled a gun from one of the shooters risking his own life to save others.
“He was trying to get a cup of coffee and found himself at a moment where people were being shot in front of him,” Prime Minister Albanese said. “He decided to take action and his bravery is an inspiration for all Australians.”
Ahmed was shot multiple times in the shoulder and is expected to undergo further surgery. Bedbound and heavily bandaged he thanked supporters in a brief video in Arabic saying “May Allah reward you and grant you wellbeing. God willing we will return to you with joy.”
Global admiration for Ahmed’s heroism has poured in including praise from former US President Donald Trump. Meanwhile an online fundraiser has raised over AU$1.9 million to cover his medical expenses reflecting the outpouring of support from around the world.
From Syria to Sydney Ahmed al Ahmed’s bravery is being hailed as a shining example of humanity in the face of evil.
