Bondi Beach Hero Ahmed Al-Ahmed Honored in NYC After Shooting

UPDATE: Bondi Beach hero Ahmed Al-Ahmed was honored at a Chabad gala in New York City last night, just weeks after bravely tackling a shooter during a Hanukkah celebration in Australia. Al-Ahmed, a Syrian refugee, described his life-threatening act as merely fulfilling his “duty as a human being.”

During the gala held on December 27, Al-Ahmed downplayed his heroism, stating, “I do my duty. I’m helping and saving… It felt like my duty as a human being. Helping, keeping people safe.” Al-Ahmed suffered five gunshot wounds while neutralizing one of the terrorists who opened fire on a gathering at Bondi Beach, where 15 people were killed and 40 others were injured on December 14.

Al-Ahmed was met with a standing ovation as he took the stage, still wearing a sling from his injuries. “I’m looking at the world from the side of peace,” he reflected, acknowledging how the horrific attack has reshaped his perspective. He expressed pride in being called a hero, saying, “I sneaked behind the gunman and wrestled the weapon away before pointing it at him.”

The emotional gala, hosted by the Colel Chabad, featured Rabbi Yehoram Ulman, who spoke about the pain of losing loved ones in the attack. “Three weeks ago, we were struck by evil…15 precious souls were stolen from us,” he shared, highlighting the deep impact of the tragedy on the community.

Al-Ahmed traveled to NYC on December 26 to connect with Jewish leaders and visit the Ohel Chabad Lubavitch in Queens, where he paid respects at the gravesite of Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson. Attendees at the gala, some who lost friends in the massacre, expressed their gratitude towards Al-Ahmed for his courageous actions.

“I came from San Diego to this event. I needed to support my community,” said Talia Kastiel-Katz, who lost two friends that day. “When I met him, I gave him a big hug. He’s a big hero for me. I said ‘thank you. You saved many people.’”

Al-Ahmed is currently recovering from his injuries, which have left him with limited use of his fingers. He remains hopeful for a full recovery, stating, “Honestly, there’s a pain… but it’ll be all right. I need time, you know, one, two months, that’s what the doctor says.”

As the global community reflects on the impact of the Bondi Beach shooting, Al-Ahmed’s story serves as a powerful reminder of courage in the face of violence. The gala underscored the unity and resilience of those affected, emphasizing that “the darkness will not win.”

Stay tuned for more updates on Al-Ahmed’s recovery and ongoing tributes to the victims of this tragic event.