Ahmed al-Ahmed is a 44-year-old shopkeeper originally from Aleppo, Syria. He has taken national attention for his superhuman act of gallantry in a reported bombers assault in Bondi, Sydney, on Sunday night. In risking his life to disarm one of the attackers, he was nothing short of a hero and undoubtedly saved many lives. In the immediate aftermath, he was in the hospital recovering from two bullet wounds from the violent attack.
Al-Ahmed’s actions have rung so true with Australians that they have inspired thousands of other Australians — even inspiring former Prime Minister John Howard. Howard praised al-Ahmed’s courage, referring to him as “the single act of greatest courage we’ve seen,” highlighting both his bravery and his identity as a Muslim contributing to the safety of others.
The reaction from the community has been incredible. A GoFundMe in support of al-Ahmed has raised more than $2 million. Most notably, though not at all surprisingly, billionaire William Ackman gave $99,999, the max allowed, to the effort. Al-Ahmed’s story has gone from melting the hearts of ordinary Australians onto the doorsteps of our highest levels of government.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese visiting al-Ahmed at St George Hospital. Calling him “the best of our country” Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) During the less than half-hour visit, al-Ahmed was effusive in his thanks. When we met on his hospital bed, his left hand was severely bandaged from the gun violence he experienced during the attack.
“Your heart is strong, your courage is inspiring,” – Anthony Albanese
In a story-break on Tuesday morning, above Albanese’s visit, New South Wales Premier Chris Minns joined al-Ahmed on stage Monday night. “I think al-Ahmed should get a bravery award,” said Minns. He noted that it’s already al-Ahmed’s third nomination for this prestigious award.
Al-Ahmed’s courage stirs up an intense wave of patriotic passion. Australians come together with a powerful sense of purpose to care for one another in times of crisis. John Howard further emphasized this theme, stating, “There are good people of every persuasion in this wonderful country about and although it’s a terrible tragedy and a reminder that anything can happen here, we should not lose faith in the Australian achievement.”
In the process of his recovery, al-Ahmed wrote about his experience, having a very evident personal connection to his faith and family. He stated, “I went through a very difficult phase, only Allah knows it … I ask my mother, the apple of my eye, to pray for me.”
Yet the one al-Ahmed tells across Australia inspires hope and unity. Citizens are mobilizing to protect him, and celebrating his tremendous bravery in the face of tremendous odds.