Overview
- Speaking to CBS in his first public remarks, Ahmed al-Ahmed said, “My soul made me do it,” explaining his split-second decision to intervene.
- He disarmed one attacker during the Bondi Beach assault and was shot twice in the left arm, forcing the gunman to retreat without further injuries.
- Authorities say the December 14 attack targeted a Jewish Chanukah celebration and left 16 people dead, including one attacker.
- Al-Ahmed, a 44-year-old Syrian-born Australian and father, has undergone multiple operations and remains in recovery, according to ABC.
- A crowdfunding campaign has raised more than 2.6 million Australian dollars for his recovery, and leaders including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, King Charles and President Donald Trump have praised his actions.