Donations for Ahmed al-Ahmed have surged past $2.7 million after his heroic actions during the Bondi Beach shooting shocked the world.
The 43-year-old Syrian-born fruit vendor has been widely praised for his bravery during one of Australia’s darkest recent days.
When two gunmen opened fire on crowds gathered at Bondi Beach in Sydney on Sunday, December 14, Ahmed did not hesitate.
He ran toward danger and managed to tackle one of the alleged shooters, disarming him during the chaos.
Many believe his actions may have saved countless lives as terrified families fled the beach.
Fifteen people were killed in the attack, along with one of the alleged suspects, 50-year-old Sajid Akram.
The second suspect, Sajid’s 24-year-old son Naveed Akram, survived and was later taken into police custody.
During the struggle, Ahmed was shot twice and rushed to hospital for emergency treatment.
Footage of the moment spread rapidly across social media, prompting an outpouring of praise and financial support.
A fundraiser was launched soon after, and at the time of writing, it has raised $2,635,362 from more than 42,000 donations.
Health update from Ahmed’s lawyer
Speaking to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, Ahmed’s lawyer Sam Issa shared an update on his condition.
On Thursday, December 18, Issa said Ahmed had undergone “a very complex operation” involving serious nerve damage.
He explained that the father-of-two was experiencing significant pain following the procedure.
Issa added that Ahmed was preparing for another surgery scheduled for the following day.
The next operation is expected to last up to eight hours, highlighting the severity of his injuries.
Despite the pain, Issa said Ahmed remains grateful for the overwhelming support shown by people around the world.
Ahmed’s first message from hospital
Earlier this week, Ahmed released his first public statement from his hospital bed.
A clip shared by Turkish public broadcaster TRT World showed him thanking supporters and sending prayers.
Speaking in Arabic, he said: “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 added.
He also made a personal plea, saying: “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 said.
His words further moved supporters, many of whom praised his humility and strength.
Visits from Australia’s leaders
Ahmed has received several high-profile visitors while recovering in hospital.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese visited him and personally thanked him for his courage.
“You’re very strong. Your heart is strong. Your courage is inspiring,” Albanese told him.
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns also visited Ahmed at his bedside.
“It’s the most unbelievable scene I’ve ever seen,” Minns said.
“A man walking up to a gunman who had fired on the community and single-handedly disarming him.”
“That man is a genuine hero,” he added. “There are many people alive tonight because of his bravery.”
Charges laid against surviving suspect
Police have since laid extensive charges against the surviving suspect, Naveed Akram.
The 24-year-old has been charged with 59 offences in total.
These include 15 counts of murder and one count of committing a terrorist act.
He also faces 40 charges of causing grievous bodily harm with intent to murder.
Additional charges include discharging a firearm with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
Police have also charged him with placing an explosive in or near a building.
Another charge relates to causing a public display of a prohibited terrorist organization symbol.
As the legal process continues, Ahmed’s recovery and extraordinary bravery remain a source of hope amid tragedy.
Featured image credit: Facebook/Chris Minns
