He charged into danger without a second thought, disarming a gunman and saving countless lives during the horrific Bondi Beach terror attack. Now, the nation is reeling from devastating news about Ahmed al-Ahmed’s condition – renowned doctors treating the 43-year-old hero have announced he may lose his arm due to severe gunshot wounds.

Ahmed al-Ahmed, the Syrian-born fruit shop owner hailed as Australia’s bravest man, was shot multiple times while tackling one of the attackers during the December 14 antisemitic rampage at a Hanukkah celebration on Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach. The father-of-two wrestled a rifle from gunman Sajid Akram, forcing him to retreat in a split-second act that undoubtedly prevented further carnage in the attack that claimed 15 lives.

But the cost of his heroism has been immense. Doctors at St George Hospital, where Ahmed remains under intensive care, have revealed the full extent of his injuries: multiple bullets tore through his shoulder and hand, causing catastrophic damage to major nerves and tissues. His close friend and spokesperson, Dr Tamer Kahil, broke the heartbreaking news in a statement: “He does have a serious injury to two major nerves. There are concerns that he may lose his arm or a significant portion of its function.”

The revelation has stunned the country, coming just days before Christmas. Ahmed has already endured multiple complex surgeries, including a grueling procedure last week, with another eight-hour operation scheduled. “He is in a lot of discomfort,” sources close to the family told Daily Mail, adding that recovery could take at least six months – if full amputation is avoided.

Video footage of Ahmed’s bravery went viral worldwide, showing him hiding behind a parked car before sprinting out, grabbing the shooter from behind, and seizing the weapon. He pointed it back at the disarmed attacker, who fled, before Ahmed calmly rested the gun against a tree and raised his hands to signal police. The second gunman, Naveed Akram, continued firing from a nearby bridge.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who visited Ahmed bedside, called him “an Australian hero” who “represents the best of our country.” US President Donald Trump praised his “great respect” for the “very brave person” who “saved a lot of lives.” Even from his hometown in war-torn Syria, relatives celebrated his actions as making “our village, Syria, all Muslims and the entire world” proud.

Ahmed, a Muslim immigrant who arrived in Australia in 2006 and became a citizen, has spoken humbly from hospital. In his first public message, he thanked supporters and said he’d “do it again” to save lives. “To stand with each other, all human beings… and keep going to save life,” he urged in a video.

The outpouring of support has been overwhelming. A GoFundMe skyrocketed past $2.5 million, with Ahmed presented an oversized novelty cheque in his hospital bed – a moment captured on video that drew mixed reactions, some calling it “dystopian” amid his pain. Donations poured in from around the globe, including a US billionaire, to help the “quiet and humble” family man who owns a small convenience store.

His parents, speaking from Syria, expressed immense pride despite the agony. “I am so proud of my son because he is a hero all around Australia,” his father said. Ahmed’s mother added she was “very proud that my son was helping people and saving lives.”

As Christmas approaches, Ahmed’s story has become a beacon of unity in a divided time. Community leaders, including rabbis and Muslim figures, visited him, thanking the hero who bridged faiths in crisis. NSW Premier Chris Minns said Ahmed saved “countless” lives, while Governor-General Sam Mostyn joined tributes.

Yet the latest medical update casts a shadow. Doctors remain cautiously optimistic, stressing Ahmed’s strength, but the risk of amputation looms large. “I do not believe that he is going to lose his arm,” Dr Kahil clarified, countering some rumors, “however he does have a serious injury.”

New photos emerged showing Ahmed sitting upright for the first time, a promising sign of progress amid the ordeal. He’s conscious, frail but determined, facing a long road ahead.

Australia mourns the 15 victims while celebrating its hero. Floral tributes pile outside his shop, and fans worldwide pray for his recovery. Ahmed al-Ahmed ran towards danger when others fled – now, the nation stands with him in his darkest hour.

No official word yet on his exact prognosis, but doctors vow to fight for full recovery. As one insider said: “He’s a fighter. Just like on that beach.”