More than $2.6 million has been raised for Ahmed al-Ahmed, the hero who disarmed a terrorist during a mass shooting at Bondi Beach. The December 14 attack targeted a Hanukkah celebration, leaving 15 people dead and dozens wounded. Al-Ahmed, a Syrian-born Australian Muslim, was shot twice while tackling the gunman.
A GoFundMe campaign supported by nearly 45,000 donors organized the massive fundraiser. Video footage showed the father of two wrestling a weapon away from the attacker, likely saving countless lives. Influencer Zachery Dereniowski visited al-Ahmed’s hospital bed Friday to present a check for the first $2.5 million.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese hailed al-Ahmed as a national hero during a recent hospital visit. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also praised the intervention as "brave." The Australian government is currently investigating the shooting as a targeted terror attack against the Jewish community.
Police have charged a 24-year-old man with murder in connection with the massacre. The suspect allegedly carried out the attack with his 50-year-old father, who died at the scene. This outpouring of support reflects a global appreciation for al-Ahmed's extraordinary courage.