Bondi Beach hero Ahmed al-Ahmed shares recovery update after massacre

The Syrian immigrant who tackled a gunman during the Bondi terror attack is ready to return to normal life.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Ahmed Al-Ahmed, the hero who bravely tackled one of the gunmen during the Bondi terror attack, has been the recipient of worldwide praise and over $1.7 million in donations. However, despite his newfound fame, Al-Ahmed appears ready to return to his normal life, with plans to reopen his tobacco shop in Sutherland, Sydney. Al-Ahmed suffered five gunshot wounds during the attack but is determined to recover and 'rise again'.

Why it matters

The Bondi terror attack was a tragic event that shook the local community, but Ahmed Al-Ahmed's heroic actions helped prevent further loss of life. His story has resonated globally, highlighting the bravery of ordinary people who put themselves in harm's way to protect others. As Al-Ahmed looks to return to his normal life, it serves as an inspiring example of resilience in the face of adversity.

The details

After being discharged from the hospital, Al-Ahmed was celebrated as a hero, receiving praise from Australians and well-known celebrities, as well as being given the keys to a Sydney council. However, despite his newfound fame and the $1.7 million in donations he received, Al-Ahmed appears ready to return to his normal life, with plans to reopen his tobacco shop in Sutherland. Photos show Al-Ahmed outside his shop, seemingly reading letters left by well-wishers, while a camera crew films his reaction.

  • In December, Al-Ahmed bravely tackled one of two gunmen during the Bondi terror attack.
  • After being discharged from the hospital, Al-Ahmed was given a hero's reception at multiple events in January 2026.
  • Last Friday, Al-Ahmed was spotted outside his tobacco shop in Sutherland.

The players

Ahmed Al-Ahmed

A Syrian immigrant who became a hero after tackling one of the gunmen during the Bondi terror attack, suffering five gunshot wounds in the process. He has since received worldwide praise, over $1.7 million in donations, and is now looking to return to his normal life by reopening his tobacco shop in Sutherland, Sydney.

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What they’re saying

“My target was just to take the gun from him and to stop him from killing a human being, life, and not killing innocent people.”

— Ahmed Al-Ahmed (CBS)

“Doctors sent electric shocks through it again and again. Even at 100 mA (milliamperes), I felt nothing. That moment was painful, but it did not break me. I remember the days when I saved lives and made a difference. If I had that strength once, I will find it again. This phase is hard, but it is temporary. Healing takes time, and I am ready to fight for it. I ask everyone reading this to keep me in your prayers. I believe I will heal. I believe I will rise again. I will not give up.”

— Ahmed Al-Ahmed (Instagram)

The takeaway

Ahmed Al-Ahmed's story is a testament to the power of ordinary people to make a difference in extraordinary circumstances. Despite the trauma and injuries he sustained, his determination to return to his normal life and continue serving his community is an inspiring example of resilience and the human spirit.