The shopkeeper hailed as a hero for his actions during Australia's deadly Bondi terror attack has spoken publicly for the first time, describing the moment he leapt onto the gunman's back in a desperate bid to halt the massacre.
A Desperate Intervention to Save Lives
Ahmed al Ahmed, 43, was shot four times after wrestling the weapon from attacker Sajid Akram during the horrific assault on 14 December 2025. The attack targeted a Hanukkah celebration in Sydney's Archer Park, attended by over 1,000 people. Fifteen individuals lost their lives and dozens more were wounded in what became the deadliest terror attack in modern Australian history.
In an interview with CBS, Mr Ahmed explained that his sole motivation was to prevent further bloodshed. "My target was just to take the gun from him, and to stop him from killing a human being's life and not killing innocent people," he stated. "I know I saved lots, but I feel sorry for the lost."
The Moment of Confrontation
Recounting the terrifying seconds of his intervention, Mr Ahmed described a surge of instinctive power. "I jumped on his back, hit him. I hold him with my right hand and start saying a word, you know, like to warn him, drop your gun, stop doing what you're doing, and it's come all in fast," he said.
He elaborated on the emotional drive behind his courageous act: "And emotionally, I'm doing something, which is I feel something, a power in my body, my brain ... I don't want to see people killed in front of me, I don't want to hear his gun, I don't want to see people screaming and begging, asking for help, and that's my soul asking me to do that."
Video footage of the struggle, which saw Mr Ahmed ultimately disarm the assailant before being shot, circulated globally in the attack's aftermath.
Aftermath and National Recognition
Mr Ahmed sustained four to five gunshot wounds to the shoulder, according to his parents. His bravery prompted an enormous public response, with over 40,000 people donating to a GoFundMe appeal that raised 2.5 million Australian dollars (£1.2 million) for his recovery. The fundraiser attracted contributions from high-profile figures including comedian Amy Schumer and billionaire Bill Ackman.
One suspected gunman, Naveed Akram, is facing 59 charges related to the attack. His father, Sajid Akram, was fatally shot by police at the scene.
In the wake of the tragedy, the Australian government announced plans before Christmas to establish a new honour for civilians like Mr Ahmed who stand against "the worst of evil." Prime Minister Anthony Albanese reflected, "This Christmas is a different one because of the anti-terror and the terrorist attack motivated by Isis and antisemitism."
The story of Ahmed al Ahmed's selfless actions continues to resonate, highlighting a profound act of courage amidst one of Australia's darkest days.
