The man whose brave actions helped stop a terrorist attack on Sydney's Bondi Beach has been presented with a staggering £1.2 million (AUD $2.5 million) cheque, raised by thousands of people from across the globe.
A Humble Hero's Response
Ahmed al Ahmed, a 44-year-old father-of-two and local fruit shop owner, was filmed in his hospital bed being handed the life-changing sum. The funds were donated by 43,000 individuals moved by footage of him tackling one of the gunmen during the horrific antisemitic attack on Sunday, which claimed 15 lives.
When influencer Zachery Dereniowski, known online as mdmotivator, presented the cheque, Mr al Ahmed's humble response was simply: "I deserve it?" To which Dereniowski warmly affirmed, "Every penny."
An Act of Courage in the Face of Evil
The Syria-born hero was shot several times in the shoulder during the confrontation but succeeded in disarming the assailant. He remains in hospital recovering from his injuries. In a moving message to his donors, Mr al Ahmed spoke of unity and the sanctity of life.
"To stand with each other, all human beings, and forget everything bad behind the back, and keep going to save life. Save lives," he said. "When I do, save the people, I do it from the heart... everyone was happy and they deserve, they deserve to enjoy and it's their right."
Prime Ministerial Praise and Legal Proceedings
Mr al Ahmed's heroism has drawn admiration at the highest levels. Australia's Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, visited him in hospital, telling him "your heart is strong" and calling him "the best of our country." The PM later stated that in a moment of evil, the bystander "shines out as an example of the strength of humanity."
The attack, which targeted a Hanukkah celebration, was declared a terrorist incident by police. One of the alleged gunmen, Naveed Akram, 24, has since woken from a coma and been charged with 59 offences, including 15 counts of murder. His father and alleged accomplice, Sajid Akram, 50, was shot dead by police at the scene.
The global fundraising effort and Mr al Ahmed's selfless actions have provided a powerful story of hope and communal support following an unspeakable tragedy.
