Key Takeaways
- Ahmed al-Ahmed, a 44-year-old tobacco shop owner, is recovering well from gunshot wounds suffered during a terrorist attack on a Hanukah event in Bondi.
- Ahmed was shot five times while confronting the alleged gunman, Sajid Akram, and is expected to be discharged from the hospital soon.
- His left arm and shoulder were severely injured, and it may take at least six months for him to regain normal function in his arm.
- Ahmed has received widespread recognition and praise for his bravery, including visits from government officials and dignitaries, and a donation of $2.5m to support his recovery.
- His family, including his father and mother who are visiting from Syria, have been by his side throughout his recovery, and there are calls for them to be granted Australian citizenship.
Introduction to Ahmed al-Ahmed’s Recovery
Ahmed al-Ahmed, the heroic tobacco shop owner who confronted the alleged gunman during a terrorist attack on a Hanukah event in Bondi, is recovering well from his gunshot wounds. According to Syrian community members, Ahmed has undergone three rounds of surgery and is expected to be discharged from the hospital soon. His wounds have been cleaned and cleared of shrapnel, and are closing and healing. Tamer Kahil, a member of Sydney’s Syrian community who has visited Ahmed, said that he looks happier and is a humble and shy person. Ahmed’s bravery and selflessness have earned him widespread recognition and praise, and he is expected to be honored for his actions.
The Attack and Ahmed’s Bravery
The attack on the Hanukah event in Bondi was a devastating and tragic incident that resulted in the loss of 15 lives. Ahmed, who was getting coffee with his cousin at the time, crept towards the alleged gunman, Sajid Akram, and tackled him, pulling the rifle from his hands and pointing it at him. Mobile phone footage shows Ahmed’s bravery and quick thinking, which likely saved many lives. However, Ahmed was subsequently shot five times, with bullets hitting his left arm and shoulder. His injuries were severe, and it may take at least six months for him to regain normal function in his arm.
Visits and Recognition
Ahmed has received numerous visits from well-wishers and dignitaries, including the prime minister, the NSW premier, and the Australian governor general. He has also been congratulated by King Charles and David Ossip, the president of NSW’s Jewish Board of Deputies. Ossip praised Ahmed’s "unbelievable bravery" at a vigil for the victims of the terror attack, which was attended by Ahmed’s father, Mohamed Fateh al-Ahmed. The vigil was a poignant and moving tribute to the victims and their families, and Ahmed’s bravery was widely acknowledged and celebrated.
Family and Support
Ahmed’s family, including his father and mother, have been by his side throughout his recovery. They have been visiting from Syria for the past three months, and there are calls for them to be granted Australian citizenship so they do not have to return. Ahmed’s former migration lawyer, Sam Issa, has called for the government to grant them citizenship, but so far, there has been no decision. Meanwhile, Ahmed’s wife and daughters have been visiting him in the hospital, and he is expected to spend time with them and rest during his recovery.
Donations and Future Plans
Australians and sympathizers worldwide have donated $2.5m to Ahmed via GoFundMe to support his recovery. Ahmed was presented with a novelty cheque and asked, "I deserve it?" The donation is a testament to the widespread recognition and praise for Ahmed’s bravery, and it will likely change his life. Lubaba Alhmidi AlKahil, the media director for the Australians for Syria Association, said that Ahmed’s fame and recognition, along with his injuries, will require him to think carefully about his next steps in life. Ahmed’s shop, where hundreds of people have left notes and flowers paying tribute, is likely to remain closed for the time being, and Ahmed will focus on his recovery and spending time with his family.