Sydney beach hero Ahmed al Ahmed was shot multiple times, parents say

Ahmed al Ahmed, the man hailed as a hero for disarming an attacker during the mass shooting at Sydney's Bondi Beach, sustained multiple gunshot wounds during his intervention, his parents have disclosed. In an interview, they stated he was shot "four to five times in his shoulder," with several bullets still lodged in his body, and remains hospitalized after successful initial surgery.

An act of bravery amid chaos

Ahmed's mother, Malakeh Hasan al Ahmed, described how her son acted when he saw people dying. "When that guy ran out of ammo, he took it from him, but he was hit," she told Australian media. Viral video footage shows Ahmed approaching one of the gunmen from behind, tackling him, and seizing his rifle. Police have acknowledged his actions helped prevent further casualties in the attack, which authorities have declared a terrorist act.

Personal background and global recognition

Ahmed, 43, is an Australian citizen who emigrated from Syria's Idlib province in 2006 and works as a fruit seller. His parents, who recently arrived in Australia, said their son "would have done anything to protect anyone, regardless of their background or faith." His bravery has drawn international praise, with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese calling him a hero and US President Donald Trump commending him as a "very brave person." An online fundraiser for Ahmed has surpassed $1 million in donations.

Context of the attack and ongoing recovery

The attack on Sunday evening was carried out by two shooters—a 50-year-old man and his 24-year-old son—leaving at least 16 dead and dozens injured. One attacker was killed and the other critically wounded. Ahmed, a father of two young daughters, is expected to undergo further surgeries as the investigation into the tragedy continues, with his family praying for his recovery.