Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Tobacco Shop Owner's Bravery Shines Amid Terror Attack

12/25/2025

48 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Ahmed al-Ahmed, a tobacco shop owner, was shot while disarming one of the alleged Bondi shooters during a terrorist attack that killed 15 people at a Hanukkah event.
He has undergone three surgeries and is expected to leave the hospital soon.
Donations for him total more than $2.5 million.
Community members praised his bravery.
The attack has heightened fears of Islamophobia, with reported hate incidents against Muslims surging.

History

Historical Context

The Hanukkah Massacre on December 28, 2019, in Monsey, New York, left five Hasidic Jews injured during a celebration. This attack highlighted a troubling rise in anti-Semitic violence, with the Anti-Defamation League reporting a 12% increase in incidents that year. Community donations exceeding $2.5 million reflect solidarity against hate crimes, underscoring the ongoing need for protection of religious communities.

1 of 2

Story summary

Ahmed al-Ahmed, a tobacco shop owner, was shot while disarming one of the alleged Bondi shooters during a terrorist attack that killed 15 people at a Hanukkah event.
He has undergone three surgeries and is expected to leave the hospital soon.
Donations for him total more than $2.5 million.
Community members praised his bravery.
The attack has heightened fears of Islamophobia, with reported hate incidents against Muslims surging.

1 / 2