Hero of Bondi Beach savaged in Arab media as a ‘traitor’ for saving Jewish lives | World | News
The hero who disarmed a gunman during the Bondi Beach shooting has been savaged in Arab media for being a “traitor” and saving Jewish lives, according to a report. Palestine-based Ramallah News shared a report about the noble actions of Ahmed al Ahmed, 43, at the weekend, and this was met by commenters praying that he would not recover from the serious injuries he sustained, an analysis by the Israeli-based Palestinian Media Watch (PMW) suggested.
Mr Ahmed was shot twice as he wrestled a firearm out of one of the shooter’s hands and turned it on them. Astonishing video footage showed the father of two and fruit stall owner sneak up on the attacker. New South Wales Police reported that the incident, which saw a Chanukah event targeted, resulted in 16 people dying – including a 10-year-old girl – and 40 people being injured. Those who opened fire are thought to be a father and son, Sajid Akram, 50, who was killed, and Naveed Akram, 24.
At least 75% of more than 1,000 comments on the Ramallah post about Mr Ahmed were derogatory, Ahron Shapiro, an Australian and senior PMW researcher told The Australian.
Only 20% were supportive, and called him a hero who defended his fellow man.
“I wish (the bullet) hit your heart,” one person wrote.
“May Allah not heal you,” another said.
Mr Ahmed was also accused of selling out his life “for the safety of Jews”.
“May God send you a disease that has no cure,” a post read.
Other messages expressed a wish that Mr Ahmed would die and suffer eternal damnation for his actions.
Others went as far as to question his faith, calling him “atheist” and alleging that he only stopped the gunman for monetary reward.
The Palestinian Authority condemned the shooting as an horrific act of “extremism and terrorism”.
Mr Ahmed has received $2.5million (£1.24million) in community donations from his hospital bed as he continues to be treated.
He reportedly may lose his arm.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese visited Mr Ahmed in hospital earlier this week and called him “the best of our country”.
