Ahmed al-Ahmed captured the world’s admiration with his heroic acts on Bondi Beach. However, his bravery has come with significant personal hardship. Today, we bring you a sobering update about Ahmed, shared by his attorney.
Heroic Act Against the Odds
At 43, Ahmed al-Ahmed, originally from Syria and a respected tobacconist, quickly became an international hero following the tragic events on Bondi Beach in Sydney on December 14. When faced with two gunmen opening fire on innocent bystanders, Ahmed fearlessly confronted and disarmed one attacker, undoubtedly saving many lives.
Before taking action, Ahmed made a poignant statement to his cousin, stating: “I’m going to die – please see my family and tell them that I went down to save people’s lives,” as reported by The Sydney Morning Herald.
Though recorded footage of his brave actions spread widely across the Internet, Ahmed endured serious injuries during the incident, having been shot twice. Since that day, he has been receiving intensive medical care in the hospital.
Struggling with Injury
Recent updates from his lawyer, Sam Issa, revealed troubling news: “At this stage, he says he has no feeling in his arm.” Sharing more with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, Issa provided further insight into the tribulations Ahmed is currently facing.
On Thursday, December 18, Issa elaborated: “Ahmed had recently undergone a very complex operation involving nerve damage and is currently experiencing significant discomfort.” He added that Ahmed is gearing up for another intensive surgery scheduled for the next day.
From his hospital bed earlier in the week, Ahmed reached out to the public, expressing gratitude in his native Arabic [translated]: “I appreciate the efforts of everyone. May Allah reward you and grant you wellbeing. God willing, we will return to you with joy. Thank you for your efforts.” He sent a heartfelt message to his mother, stating, “I went through a very difficult phase, only Allah knows it … I ask my mother, the apple of my eye, to pray for me.”
Ahmed’s immense courage has attracted numerous notable visitors such as Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who commended him, saying: “You’re very strong. Your heart is strong. Your courage is inspiring.” Likewise, New South Wales Premier Chris Minns honored his bravery with the words: “It’s the most unbelievable scene I’ve ever seen. A man walking up to a gunman who had fired on the community and single-handedly disarming him, putting his own life at risk to save the lives of countless other people. That man is a genuine hero. I’ve got no doubt that there are many, many people alive tonight as a result of his bravery.”
Support and Mourning
The impactful video of Ahmed’s gallant actions has catalyzed a tremendous outpouring of support, leading to a fundraiser that has amassed over $2.5 million from over 42,000 donors.
The attack, however, didn’t come without heartbreak, as it claimed the lives of 15 individuals, along with 50-year-old Sajid Akram, one of the alleged gunmen. Authorities have marked this as the most tragic attack in Australia since the 1996 Port Arthur massacre, casting a shadow of mourning over the nation.
The surviving suspect, 24-year-old Naveed Akram, faces serious charges, including 59 offenses such as 15 counts of murder and one count of performing a terrorist act. His other charges include causing grievous bodily harm with intent, discharging a firearm with intent, and represents a prohibited terrorist organization symbol in a public display.
