Prime Minister's Hospital Visit
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese visited Ahmed al Ahmed in hospital following his involvement in a recent incident at a Sydney shopping centre. Mr. al Ahmed sustained multiple gunshot wounds to the shoulder during the event. He is scheduled to undergo further surgery on Wednesday.
Mr. al Ahmed, a 43-year-old father-of-two, operates a fruit shop and was born in Syria. Prime Minister Albanese publicly acknowledged Mr. al Ahmed's actions, stating he represented "the best of our country" and was an "Australian hero."
Details of the Incident
The incident occurred on Sunday at a shopping centre in Sydney during an event marking the first night of Hanukkah. Police have classified the event as a terrorist incident, indicating it targeted the Jewish community. The attack resulted in the deaths of at least 15 individuals, making it the most lethal gun attack in Australia since 1996.
Public and International Response
Prime Minister Albanese stated that Mr. al Ahmed, who was present at the scene, decided to intervene during the shooting. Public support for Mr. al Ahmed has been noted nationwide, including comments from former US President Donald Trump. Additionally, a US billionaire contributed $99,999 (US$65,000; £49,000) to Mr. al Ahmed.