Social Media Supports The Muslim Community With Viral Hashtag #illridewithyou

The gunman holding captives in Sydney, Australia has been killed along with two innocent hostages after police stormed the Lindt Chocolat Cafe early Tuesday morning.

The suspect, identified as Man Monis, has been confirmed dead after police entered the cafe when they heard what sounded like flash bang grenades. Three other people were injured, including one police man. Monis allegedly held 17 people hostage, although up to 12 were able to leave the cafe safety before the police ambush.

Monis, a self-proclaimed Islamic sheikh with a violent past, was seen walking into the cafe and chocolate shop with a bag and a gun as people were heading to work in Martin Place on Monday. A black Islamic flag was displayed in the shop window during the hostage situation by the armed suspect who claimed "political motivation."

Two Australian men of the Islamic faith visited the scene later to pray for the hostages, which sparked the religious conversation on social media.

As a result of the hostage situation, there have been unconfirmed reports that Muslim women wearing their traditional clothing were being harassed on public transportation in Sydney.

Twelve hours after the Sydney siege, Australians took to social media to stand in solidarity with the Muslim community. Twitter user Sir Tessa has been credited for starting the social media campaign that has since become a worldwide movement. Using the viral hashtag #Illridewithyou, the campaign includes accompanying someone of Islamic faith who may be scared to be seen wearing their religious clothes when they are traveling.

Sir Tessa began the hashtag after reading anti-Muslim sentiments trending across social media. "Wear religious attire, & don't feel safe alone: I'll ride with you," the tweet reads.

The hashtag has gained supporters all over the world, including celebrities like ABC's Emma Alverici, Today co-host Lisa Wilkison and Dancing With the Stars host Daniel McPherson. #illridewithyou has gained more than 112,000 mentions on social media.

Check out some of the tweets below.