Ahmed Al Ahmed Disarmed Bondi Gunman in 10 Seconds, Then Survived 5 Gunshots
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · Nov 10
Ahmed Al Ahmed Disarmed Bondi Gunman in 10 Seconds, Then Survived 5 Gunshots
3 articles · Updated · The Guardian · Nov 10
Summary
Ahmed Al Ahmed says he tackled and disarmed one of the Bondi Hanukah attackers in less than 10 seconds before the second gunman opened fire and wounded him five times.
15 people were killed in the December attack on a Jewish beach celebration in Sydney, including a 10-year-old girl; a 16th victim has since died in hospital.
Al Ahmed said he dropped the seized rifle and raised his hands as police arrived, fearing officers might mistake him for an attacker, while the disarmed gunman later rejoined the shooting with another weapon.
The 45-year-old Syrian-born Australian has raised more than A$2.5 million, still lives with pain and limited hand movement, and has started an anti-violence foundation.
Naveed Akram, 25, is due to stand trial next year; his father Sajid Akram, whom Al Ahmed disarmed, was later shot dead by police.
What systemic security failures will the royal commission uncover regarding the deadly Bondi Beach Hanukkah attack that claimed 16 lives?
Can the profound interfaith solidarity sparked by a Muslim hero saving Jewish lives truly counteract rising extremism and division in Australia?
How does a celebrated hero's private legal battle involving a domestic violence order complicate the public perception of his extraordinary courage?
The Bondi Beach Mass Shooting: Ahmed Al Ahmed’s Heroism, $2.5 Million Fundraiser, and Australia’s Sweeping Security Reforms After the December 2025 Attack
Overview
On December 14, 2025, Sajid Akram and his son Naveed launched a deadly antisemitic attack at Bondi Beach, killing 15 and injuring dozens. Sajid, who legally obtained the weapons, was stopped from causing further tragedy when Ahmed Al Ahmed, a former Syrian soldier with tactical training, bravely ambushed and disarmed him. Ahmed was seriously wounded but became a national hero, receiving widespread recognition and over $2.6 million in donations. However, family disputes over these funds led to legal troubles for Ahmed, though charges were later withdrawn. The attack sparked public outcry, major gun law reforms, and strengthened interfaith unity.