Chicago – December 16, 2025
The man who bravely tackled one of the alleged Bondi beach shooters has spoken publicly for the first time from hospital, as Australia’s prime minister Anthony Albanese hailed him as “the best of our country”.
Ahmed al-Ahmed, 44, risked his life on Sunday evening in Sydney when he confronted and disarmed one of the attackers during the Bondi terror attack, an act widely credited with saving multiple lives. Ahmed is currently recovering in hospital after undergoing surgery for two gunshot wounds.
Message of Gratitude from Hospital
“I appreciate the efforts of everyone,” he said.
“May Allah reward you and grant you wellbeing. God willing, we will return to you with joy. Thank you for your efforts.”
Ahmed also spoke emotionally about his ordeal, asking for prayers from his mother.
“I went through a very difficult phase, only Allah knows it … I ask my mother, the apple of my eye, to pray for me.”
Visit from Australian Leaders
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese visited Ahmed at St George Hospital in Sydney’s south, spending nearly half an hour with him and his family. Albanese later described Ahmed as a “humble man” whose bravery should inspire all Australians.
“He was just trying to get a cup of coffee,” Albanese told reporters. “Instead, he found himself in a moment where people were being shot in front of him. He decided to take action.”
In a video shared on Instagram, Albanese shook Ahmed’s hand and told him: “Your heart is strong, your courage is inspiring.”
The Governor-General, Sam Mostyn, also visited Ahmed, bringing flowers picked from Admiralty House. She said King Charles had personally asked after him and thanked Ahmed for what she described as “a moment of absolute heroics”.
Calls for Australia’s Highest Bravery Award
Political leaders and community members are now calling for Ahmed to receive the Cross of Valour, Australia’s highest bravery award. Sam Mostyn confirmed that Ahmed has already been nominated multiple times for a national bravery honour.
Local federal MP Simon Kennedy was among those supporting the call, citing Ahmed’s extraordinary courage in the face of grave danger.
A Beloved Member of the Community
Ahmed, a Syrian-born shopkeeper, has run a tobacconist near Sutherland train station since 2021. Since the attack, his shop has been covered in flowers and thank-you messages from locals.
“He is a very nice man,” a neighbouring shop worker said. “Whenever we need something, he offers to help.”
Born in Idlib, Syria, Ahmed moved to Australia in 2006 and became a citizen in 2017 after years of legal appeals. He is a father of two young daughters. His parents, who were visiting from Syria, have remained by his side in hospital along with extended family.
A Symbol of Courage and Unity
As Australia continues to mourn the victims of the Bondi terror attack, Ahmed al-Ahmed’s actions have become a powerful symbol of courage, selflessness, and unity.
Despite his injuries and upcoming surgery, Ahmed has remained humble, focusing his message on gratitude, faith, and the support he has received from the Australian public qualities that leaders say truly represent the best of the nation.
