In a powerful recognition of extraordinary courage, Israeli national Gefen Bitton has been granted permanent residency in Australia as he continues to recover from severe injuries sustained during December’s Bondi Beach terror attack. Bitton, who confronted armed assailants alongside fellow hero Ahmed Al-Ahmed, remains hospitalized with multiple gunshot wounds sustained during his selfless intervention.
The horrific incident unfolded on December 14th when Sajid Akram, 50, and his son Naveed, 24, allegedly opened fire on members of the Jewish community gathered for Chanukah by the Sea celebrations. The attack resulted in 15 fatalities, including 10-year-old Matilda, and left dozens injured amidst chaotic scenes as hundreds attempted to flee the violence.
Despite having initially reached safety, Bitton made the conscious decision to return toward the gunfire when he identified the ongoing threat. Surveillance footage captured his courageous advance alongside Al-Ahmed, who ultimately disarmed one of the attackers. During this confrontation, Bitton sustained three gunshot wounds at close range, including facial injuries that required immediate surgical intervention.
The residency grant, reported by multiple outlets though not officially confirmed by the Department of Home Affairs, ensures Bitton will have access to Australia’s Medicare system and can permanently reside and work in the country. This administrative recognition coincides with substantial public support demonstrated through a GoFundMe campaign organized by friend Cayli Barr, which has raised over $724,000 for Bitton’s medical expenses and rehabilitation.
Currently in intensive care, Bitton shows daily incremental improvements according to medical staff and loved ones. His actions have been characterized by friends as reflecting deeply ingrained values of selflessness and protection of others, with Barr noting that he ‘ran into the face of danger like only a hero does’ despite being an unarmed civilian.
The alleged perpetrators faced immediate consequences following the attack, with Sajid Akram fatally shot by police response teams and Naveed Akram currently detained at Goulburn Supermax prison facing 50 criminal charges including 15 counts of murder.