From a hospital bed in Sydney, the man hailed as a hero of the Bondi Beach attack has broken his silence. Ahmed al-Ahmed, 43, shared a brief but poignant message as he recovers from injuries sustained while courageously disarming one of the alleged gunmen. In a video, the Syrian-born Australian expressed his gratitude and faith. “I appreciate the efforts of everyone,” he said in Arabic. “May Allah reward you and grant you wellbeing. God willing, we will return to you with joy.” He also spoke of the ordeal’s difficulty, adding a tender request: “I ask my mother, the apple of my eye, to pray for me.”
Al-Ahmed’s actions, captured in harrowing footage, showed him using a car for cover before tackling a shooter from behind, wrestling the rifle away during a violent struggle. His intervention, which occurred as people gathered to celebrate Hanukkah, is credited with saving countless lives. The attack tragically claimed 15 victims and left one of the alleged attackers dead. Al-Ahmed was shot twice during the confrontation and has already undergone surgery, with more procedures planned.
His bravery has drawn visits and praise from the highest levels of Australian leadership. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who visited him, told al-Ahmed, “Your heart is strong, your courage is inspiring.” NSW Premier Chris Minns called him a “real-life hero,” while Governor-General Sam Mostyn conveyed thanks on behalf of King Charles.
Former Prime Minister John Howard highlighted the profound significance of his act, noting al-Ahmed’s Muslim faith as a powerful counter-narrative to division. As the nation mourns, the quiet strength of Ahmed al-Ahmed’s message from his hospital bed stands as a beacon of selfless courage and shared humanity.
