US President Donald Trump has encouraged Jewish Americans to “celebrate proudly” amid Hanukkah after a fatal shooting targeted a Jewish gathering in Sydney, Australia, as reported by Fox News.
A gunman killed at least 11 people and wounded dozens during the “Hanukkah by the Sea” event at Bondi Beach on Sunday, with one suspect also dead, per police accounts.
In remarks to Fox News, Trump stressed that Jewish Americans should avoid fear. “Celebrate proudly be proud of who you are,” the president stated.
Trump also commended Ahmed al Ahmed, the courageous bystander who confronted and disarmed one of the attackers during the Bondi Beach incident, noting: “The actions of a brave individual who confronted and attacked one of the shooters, saving lives despite being seriously wounded. Very brave person, great respect to that man that did that,” Trump remarked.
Ahmed, a 43-year-old fruit shop owner, sustained serious injuries in the intervention, though officials noted his bravery likely averted additional fatalities.
