Bondi Beach hero Ahmed al-Ahmed honored at the NYC Colel Chabad Awards Gala dinner. Billionaire hedge fund manager Bill Ackman broke down in tears as he described the extraordinary courage al-Ahmed displayed in risking his own life to protect strangers. Ackman presented the 'light will win' award to Ahmed al-Ahmed at the Glasshouse on 12th. ave. photos courtesy: Itzik Belenitzki / Colel Chabad
UPDATE: Ahmed Al-Ahmed, the hero who bravely confronted a gunman at a Bondi Beach Hanukkah celebration, was honored at a gala in New York City on Wednesday night. The Syrian refugee downplayed his courageous act, stating he was merely fulfilling his “duty as a human being” during the Dec. 14 attack that left 15 dead and 40 wounded.
Speaking at the gala hosted by Chabad, Al-Ahmed described his actions as instinctual: “I do my duty. I’m helping and saving … It felt like my duty as a human being. Helping, keeping people safe,” he told attendees. The event took place in Midtown Manhattan, organized by the Colel Chabad, the oldest charity in Israel.
Al-Ahmed, 43, was shot five times while tackling one of the terrorists who opened fire on the Hanukkah gathering. The gunmen, a father-son duo, unleashed chaos during a festive event, leading to a national outcry and highlighting issues of safety and security during public celebrations.
Reflecting on the aftermath of the horrific incident, Al-Ahmed stated, “I’m looking at the world from the side of peace.” His perspective has shifted dramatically since the attack, where he heroically subdued the gunman and prevented further bloodshed. Although recovering from his injuries, he expressed pride when referred to as a hero, stating, “I’m very proud.”
Al-Ahmed is currently facing challenges with his recovery, having lost some dexterity in his fingers from the gunshot wounds. He remains optimistic, saying, “Honestly, there’s a pain. You know, my fingers stopped. They’re not working, but it’ll be all right … I need time, you know, one, two months, that’s what the doctor says.”
At the gala, Rabbi Yehoram Ulman of the Chabad of Bondi introduced Al-Ahmed, acknowledging the profound impact of the tragedy. “Three weeks ago, we were struck by evil. It was the eve of Hanukkah… 15 precious souls were stolen from us,” Ulman remarked, highlighting the personal losses felt within the community, including the loss of his son-in-law.
Al-Ahmed was met with a standing ovation as he took the stage, surrounded by community members and leaders who have shown immense support. Attendees, some of whom lost loved ones in the attack, expressed their gratitude. “I came from San Diego to this event. I needed to support my community. I lost two friends that day,” said Talia Kastiel-Katz. “When I met him [Al-Ahmed], I gave him a big hug. He’s a big hero for me. I said ‘thank you. You saved many people.’”
Earlier on Tuesday, Al-Ahmed visited the Ohel Chabad Lubavitch in Queens, paying respects at the gravesite of Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, further emphasizing his connection to the Jewish community.
The aftermath of the Bondi Beach shooting continues to resonate, raising critical discussions about safety, community resilience, and the power of individual courage in the face of terror. As investigations proceed, communities worldwide are reflecting on their own safety measures during public gatherings.
The gala not only celebrated Al-Ahmed’s bravery but also served as a reminder of the importance of unity and strength in times of tragedy. As the world watches, it remains clear that the darkness of violence will not overshadow the light of human compassion and bravery.
