A 14‑year‑old girl was hailed as a “true heroine” after she bravely protected two children in the middle of a deadly shooting at Bondi Beach. She managed to shield the youngsters with her own battered body while taking a hit herself, according to a post from former Israeli Defence Forces soldier Eli Afriat on X. Within minutes the tweet was shared widely, earning thousands of likes and bringing the story to national attention.
The shooting took place during the Chanukah by the Sea celebration on Sunday. The violent incident was carried out by two men, Sajid Akram (50) and Naveen Akram (24), who opened fire indiscriminately. Sixteen people died in the attack, including Sajid, and 22 others are being treated in hospitals—nine of them in critical condition.
Afriat’s post featured a hospital photograph of the girl and wrote, “She lay down over two young children whose mothers were murdered in the attack, thereby saving their lives.” He added, “A true heroine,” and followed the quote with a message of praise for her courage. The comment gained traction on Facebook as well, with the Hertfordshire Friends of Israel page sharing it and sparking a flood of heartfelt responses.
One user remarked, “This younger generation is made of special stuff – time and time again, they amaze us with their selfless acts of heroism.” Another added, “A trauma no one should ever have to endure, let alone a child. She is a heroine through and through.” A third commenter called the girl “brave little girl” and wished her a speedy physical and mental recovery, saying she “deserves nothing but good in her life.”
Beyond individual praise, the country’s response has been one of unity and support. Sydney rabbi Yossi Friedman addressed a vigil on Tuesday, urging the community not to let the darkness of evil extinguish the light that comes from everyone standing with the Jewish people, Australia, and Israel. He described the situation as “a tragedy no one should endure” and highlighted the importance of celebrating their faith in a tolerant land.
The city’s residents, many of them members of swim and surf clubs, gathered for a vigil in the morning. The scene underscored the solidarity the community has shown: “We pray for those who are in hospital recovering from horrific injuries that they have incurred for no other reason than the fact that they were trying to celebrate the religion in a country which is supposed to be tolerant,” Rabbi Friedman said.
He concluded by thanking both Jewish and non‑Jewish Australians for their support, reminding everyone that each person matters and that their collective presence will keep Australia true to what it is meant to be.
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
