Humza Yousaf’s in-laws have finally returned home to Scotland after being trapped in Gaza for four weeks. This news brought much relief and happiness to the Yousaf family, as they had been separated during a time of conflict and uncertainty.
The in-laws, Elizabeth El-Nakla and her husband Maged, who are the parents of Mr. Yousaf’s wife Nadia, were able to cross into Egypt on Friday via the Rafah crossing. The Scottish-first minister announced the joyous news on social media, along with a photo of the family reunion. Expressing his gratitude, Mr. Yousaf stated, “I am pleased to say my in-laws are safe and back home.”
However, the relief is tempered by concern for other family members who remain in Gaza. Some of Mr. Yousaf’s relatives, who do not hold UK passports, are still trapped in the war-torn region. The fear and anguish experienced by his father-in-law are evident, as he expressed, “My heart is broken in two, and with my mum, son, and grandchildren in Gaza.” The desperate situation faced by those who cannot leave the war zone is a constant reminder of the ongoing violence and suffering in the region.
During their time in Gaza, the couple faced challenging conditions, seeking refuge in a house with 100 other people, including a two-month-old child. They had attempted to leave Gaza on three previous occasions but were unsuccessful. Finally, with the reopening of border crossings, they seized the opportunity to reunite with their family in Scotland.
The conflict in Gaza has been ongoing since October, when Hamas, a proscribed terrorist organization, attacked Israel, resulting in numerous casualties and hostages. As a response, Israel has been engaged in military actions within Gaza. The Hamas-run health ministry reports that the death toll has exceeded 9,700, with countless innocent lives lost.
The evacuation of foreign nationals from Gaza has been a critical focus in recent days. Border authorities have released lists of individuals eligible to leave, including more than 90 British citizens. Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden confirmed that over 100 UK citizens have successfully escaped Gaza, but many others, including dozens of Britons, still remain.
The controlled evacuations through the Rafah crossing into Egypt began on Wednesday, allowing up to 500 foreign nationals per day to leave. However, these evacuations were temporarily halted on Saturday but were slated to resume again on Sunday. The process has been time-limited, and it is hoped that everyone wanting to leave the war-torn region will have the opportunity to do so.
While the reunion of Mr. Yousaf’s in-laws brings hope and relief, the situation in Gaza remains dire. The ongoing conflict continues to claim lives and devastate families. It is essential for international bodies and leaders to work towards a peaceful resolution, where innocent men, women, and children no longer suffer the consequences of war. The Yousaf family, deeply touched by their harrowing experience, will continue to raise their voices for peace and advocate for an end to the violence in Gaza.
