Anthony Albanese has visited Ahmed al-Ahmed in hospital, praising the Syrian-born shopkeeper who tackled one of the Bondi attackers as 'the best of our country'. The 44-year-old risked his life to disarm an alleged shooter and save multiple lives in Sydney on Sunday evening.
Al-Ahmed, who underwent surgery for two gunshot wounds, received a visit from the prime minister and the governor general, Sam Mostyn. Mostyn said King Charles had specifically asked after the man, and she expects he will receive a bravery award, having already been nominated 'many, many times'.
Born in Idlib, Syria, al-Ahmed moved to Australia in 2006 and became a citizen after years of court appeals. His parents, visiting from Syria, stayed with him in hospital. Albanese described al-Ahmed as 'a very humble man' who was 'trying to get a cup of coffee' when he found himself in the midst of the attack.
A GoFundMe page for al-Ahmed has raised over $2 million, including a $99,999 donation from US billionaire William Ackman. Former prime minister John Howard also lauded his bravery, saying, 'There are good people of every persuasion in this wonderful country of ours.'
