Ahmed Al-Ahmed, hailed as a hero for disarming one of the Bondi Beach shooters, has been photographed recovering in hospital and says he would act the same way again. Despite suffering severe injuries, the 43-year-old has expressed no regret for stepping in to protect others during the attack.

According to his former migration lawyer, Sam Issa, Al-Ahmed’s condition is far more serious than first reported. He suffered five gunshot wounds and has undergone multiple surgeries. Issa described his situation as critical and ongoing, noting that the physical and emotional toll of recovery is becoming increasingly difficult.

Issa said Al-Ahmed currently has no feeling in one arm and may have nerve damage, though doctors are still assessing the long-term effects. “He doesn’t regret what he did,” Issa said. “He told me he would do it again. But he is struggling right now. Our hero is not well at all.”

Footage of Al-Ahmed confronting gunman Sajid Akram, grabbing him from behind and wrestling away his firearm quickly spread online. Witnesses believe his actions likely prevented a greater loss of life. He placed the weapon aside instead of using it.

Moments later, a second gunman opened fire, hitting Al-Ahmed in the shoulder and arm. Akram was fatally shot by police, while the second suspect was hospitalized. Al-Ahmed remains under care at St George Hospital as global support continues, with more than $1.2 million raised to support his recovery.