CANBERRA — As Australia continues to grapple with the shock and grief following the deadly Bondi attack at Hanukkah Festival on Sunday 14 December 2025, stories of courage have emerged amid the horror. Among them is that of Ahmed al Ahmed, whose actions helped save lives during the attack.
Ahmed al Ahmed, a 43-year-old father of two, is being hailed across the globe as a real-life hero after bravely disarming one of the attackers during the violence, an act widely credited with saving countless lives.
A Syrian-born Muslim who immigrated to Australia and now runs a small tobacco shop, Ahmed acted without hesitation, placing himself directly in harm’s way to protect strangers.
While recovering in hospital from his injuries, Ahmed was visited by NSW Premier Chris Minns on Tuesday 16 December. Sharing a photo from their meeting, the Premier paid tribute to Ahmed’s actions, saying:
“Ahmed is a real-life hero. His incredible bravery no doubt saved countless lives when he disarmed a terrorist at enormous personal risk. It was an honour to spend time with him and pass on the thanks of people across NSW. There is no doubt that more lives would have been lost if not for Ahmed’s selfless courage. Thank you, Ahmed.”
The following day, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also visited Ahmed, offering personal words of encouragement and gratitude. Speaking publicly, the Prime Minister described Ahmed’s strength and courage as deeply inspiring, later writing:
“Ahmed, you are an Australian hero. 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.”
Ahmed responded simply, thanking the Prime Minister for his visit and support.
He has also been surrounded by members of the Muslim community, including the Grand Mufti of Australia, Dr Ibrahim Abu Mohamed.
The victims of the Bondi attack
While Ahmed’s bravery has rightly been recognised, the nation continues to mourn the innocent lives taken in the attack.
Sixteen people were killed during the violence on Sunday evening, including one of the alleged attackers. The victims included men, women, and a child including 10-year-old Matilda, whose life was tragically cut short.
Among those killed were Boris and Sofia Gurman, a Russian-Jewish couple who lived locally in North Bondi. Married for 34 years, Boris, a retired mechanic, and Sofia, an Australia Post employee, were among the first to confront the attacker.
Dashcam footage shows Boris acting instinctively, tackling the gunman as he exited his vehicle, attempting to wrestle the weapon away before any shots could be fired. Despite the danger, Sofia joined her husband, standing beside him as they tried to force the attacker to retreat.
Their bravery bought precious moments for others to escape. Tragically, it cost them their lives. Boris and Sofia were killed at close range, dying together after trying to protect their community.
In a statement, their family said they were “heartbroken by the sudden and senseless loss of our beloved Boris and Sofia.”
Another victim, Reuven Morrison, also lost his life while attempting to stop the attackers. Unarmed, Morrison confronted one of the gunmen as he moved toward a footbridge, throwing bricks in an effort to slow or stop the violence. He was killed while trying to protect others, acting alone but with immense courage.
Over $2.5 Million dollars raised for Ahmed
In the days since the attack, an outpouring of support has come from across Australia and around the world. Over 40,000 people raised more than $2.5 million through a GoFundMe campaign established to support Ahmed and his family. On Thursday 18 December, social media influencer Zachery from MDMotivator personally presented Ahmed with a cheque representing the donations.
OVERWHELMED, AHMED’S FIRST RESPONSE WAS A QUIET QUESTION: “I DESERVE IT?”
Zachery replied without hesitation: “Every penny.”
Speaking from his hospital bed, Ahmed used the moment not to focus on himself, but on unity and humanity. He said that all human beings must stand together, put the past behind them, and continue working to save lives.
Reflecting on his actions, Ahmed said:
“When I save people, I do it from the heart.”
He spoke of how the day had begun as a joyful one, with families out enjoying themselves, and said that everyone has the right to feel safe and celebrate. Of Australia, he said:
“This country is the best country in the world, but we’re not going to stand and keep watching. Enough is enough. God protect Australia. Aussie, Aussie, Aussie.”
C. AMUST
