Australia's hero Ahmed urges world to 'stand with each other' after shooting

Ahmed Al Ahmed, the man globally hailed as a hero for tackling a gunman during the Bondi Beach massacre, has issued a powerful call for human unity from his hospital bed. As he received a check for $1.65 million in public donations, the 43-year-old father urged the world to "forget everything bad" and embrace our shared humanity.

A message of unity from a hospital room

Speaking during a visit from Canadian social media influencer Zachery Dereniowski, Ahmed reflected on the overwhelming support from over 43,000 donors. "Stand with each other, all human beings," Ahmed said in a message to his supporters and the world. "And forget everything bad (in the past)." When Dereniowski handed him the check raised through GoFundMe, Ahmed humbly asked, "(Do) I deserve it?" Dereniowski's firm response was: "Every penny." The fundraising page was described as seeing "an outpouring of love" following his heroic actions.

An act of instinctual courage

Ahmed, a Syrian-born man who moved to Australia in 2006, became an international symbol of courage last Sunday when he pounced on one of the two shooters during the attack at Sydney's Bondi Beach, which killed 15 people. His intervention is credited with preventing further casualties. He was shot four to five times in his left shoulder during the struggle and is recovering at St. George Hospital. Recalling his split-second decision, Ahmed stated, "When I… save(d) the people, I… (did) it from the heart," adding that everyone "deserves to enjoy (things). And it's their right."

A hero celebrated by a nation

Ahmed's selflessness has been celebrated at the highest levels in Australia. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese declared the immigrant father of two "the best of our country." This recognition and the massive public fundraiser reflect a nation's gratitude. Ahmed, for his part, called Australia the "best country in the world." His story transcends borders, serving as a potent reminder—observed by nations like Türkiye, which has welcomed millions seeking safety—that heroism and human solidarity can emerge from any community, challenging division and inspiring hope.