Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has confirmed that the recent Sydney attack was inspired by the terrorist organization ISIS, calling it a global challenge and praising the courage of a civilian hero who intervened during the violence.
Speaking at a press conference in Sydney, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said there is clear evidence that the attack was inspired by ISIS. He stated that the investigation uncovered multiple indicators pointing to the extremist group’s ideology.
In the face of terrorism, coming together is the most important thing we can do.
— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) December 16, 2025
Federal and state governments, AFP and New South Wales Police are working together to keep Jewish Australians safe.
There's a lot more work ahead for our police. But we'll be with them today and… pic.twitter.com/E4nHXkrKgF
Albanese confirmed that ISIS flags were found inside the attacker’s vehicle, strengthening concerns about terrorist inspiration. He said the issue is not limited to Australia but represents a broader global threat.
'Challenge to the whole world'
“This issue has become a challenge not only here but all over the world,” Albanese told reporters. He described ISIS as “the product of a satanic ideology that the world has rejected.”
The prime minister stressed that terrorism seeks to divide communities, but Australia would not allow extremists to succeed in that aim.
Amid the chaos of the attack, Ahmed al-Ahmed, 44, risked his life to tackle and disarm one of the alleged Bondi attackers, helping to save multiple lives in Sydney on Sunday evening.
Ahmed was injured during the confrontation and has been recovering in hospital under medical care.
PM visits Ahmed in hospital
On Tuesday morning, Anthony Albanese spent nearly half an hour visiting Ahmed in a Sydney hospital. The prime minister thanked him on behalf of the Australian people and described him as “the best of our country.”
“You are so strong. Your courage is inspiring. It was an honour to meet Ahmed. He is a true Australian hero,” Albanese said during the visit.
Ahmed, you are an Australian hero.
— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) December 16, 2025
You put yourself at risk to save others, running towards danger on Bondi Beach and disarming a terrorist.
In the worst of times, we see the best of Australians. And that's exactly what we saw on Sunday night.
On behalf of every Australian, I… pic.twitter.com/mAoObU3TZD
Ahmed was seen lying in his hospital bed with a fluid drip, bouquets of flowers, and his left arm heavily bandaged. Doctors have confirmed he will undergo further surgery on Wednesday.
Despite his injuries, Albanese said Ahmed remained humble and focused on his recovery.
The prime minister explained Ahmed’s actions on the night of the attack, describing how an ordinary moment turned extraordinary.
“He was trying to get a cup of coffee, simple as that, and found himself at a moment where people were being shot in front of him,” Albanese said. “He decided to take action and his bravery is an inspiration for all Australians.”
Ahmed, thank you on behalf of every Australian. pic.twitter.com/H7RXr5o9sc
— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) December 16, 2025
Message of gratitude from hospital
Turkey’s public broadcaster TRT World posted a video on Tuesday showing Ahmed being wheeled through the hospital. Speaking in Arabic, he thanked supporters and offered prayers.
“I appreciate the efforts of everyone,” he said. “May Allah reward you and grant you wellbeing. God willing, we will return to you with joy.”
He also asked his mother to pray for him, saying, “I went through a very difficult phase, only Allah knows it.”
Albanese also met Ahmed’s parents, who had travelled from Syria to be by his side. The prime minister said they were extremely proud of their son’s actions.
“Ahmed represents our great values,” Albanese said. “He is a shining example of humanity.”
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns visited Ahmed in hospital on Monday night and spoke with him privately.
Former prime minister John Howard also praised Ahmed’s bravery in an interview with Sky News, calling it one of the greatest acts of courage seen in the country.
'Good people of every persuasion'
“The single act of greatest courage we’ve seen is that magnificent man who tackled the bloke with the gun, and I understand he’s a Muslim,” Howard said. He added that Australia should not lose faith in its values despite the tragedy.
Prime Minister Albanese concluded by reaffirming Australia’s unity, saying terrorism will not divide the nation.
“We are a brave nation,” he said. “Ahmed represents the best values of our country, and we will not allow this country to be divided.”
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