Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was forced to clarify his comments about Ahmed Al-Ahmad, the Syrian-origin man praised globally for disarming a gunman during a deadly attack near Bondi Beach in Sydney. Initially, Netanyahu described Al-Ahmad’s act of bravery as “Jewish courage” during a broadcast on a nationalist TV channel—but later corrected himself after realising the hero is Muslim.

In a rare public adjustment, Netanyahu said the world witnessed a brave individual step in and neutralise a threat, saving lives, and acknowledged that Al-Ahmad is of the Muslim faith, not Jewish.

The heroic actions of the 43-year-old fruit shop owner have earned him international acclaim, with leaders worldwide lauding his courage under fire.