A SCOTTISH woman living in Scotland has said she has been “left in the dark” after her husband was stranded in Gaza.
Jola Aljakhbir, from Glasgow, said her husband Younis (both pictured below) was trapped in the Gaza Strip whilst visiting family.
She called on the UK Government to push for an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, to contribute to humanitarian efforts, and to be more transparent in its communication with the families of loved ones trapped in Gaza.
“With each passing day, the risk to their lives increases exponentially,” she said.
Aljakhbir said her family had been completely “left in the dark” by the Government, leading them to rely on unofficial sources such as Telegram to find out information about what is happening in Gaza.
“As the UK Government evacuated British residents from Israel,” Aljakhbir said, “they left our loved ones behind [in Gaza] in a perilous situation.”
She pointed towards other families in Glasgow and across Scotland – including First Minister Humza Yousaf – who have urged the Government to assist in the safe evacuation of family members.
“We wake up every morning, checking the civil register, praying that our loved ones are still alive amidst the chaos and uncertainty that is Gaza.”
Aljakhbir urged the Government to call for an immediate ceasefire and to begin the safe evacuation of British residents and their families from Gaza.
She said: “We understand that the situation in Gaza is complex, but our primary concern is the safety and welfare of the people who call Scotland their home, and who have lived amongst us for years.
“The UK Government must fulfil its commitment to protect its people in times of crisis.”
Aljakhbir criticised the Government’s recent visits to Israel, saying that it “raised concerns and questions among our community.”
She continued: “We are desperate for clarity and information on what these visits mean for the safety and wellbeing of our relatives and friends who remain trapped in Gaza.”
Rishi Sunak visited Israel on Thursday, and in a press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, said Britain wanted Israel “to win” the war.
UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverley has also been in the region, visiting Egypt, Qatar and Turkey.
Whilst @RishiSunak is in Israel, I’m in Egypt, Qatar and Turkey. My goals are clear: Secure the release of British hostages. Stop the violence spreading to the region. Ensure emergency aid can get into Gaza. 🇪🇬 🇶🇦 🇹🇷 pic.twitter.com/mMEHxlelPC
— James Cleverly🇬🇧 (@JamesCleverly) October 19, 2023
Aljakhbir issued a “heartfelt plea” to the Government urging them to evacuate British residents from Gaza, and encouraged others to write to their local MP “urging them to facilitate the opening of the Rafah crossing for immediate evacuation”.
She continued: “Our plea is not just a call for assistance; it's a cry for help from the depths of our hearts.
“We understand that the situation is complex, but we believe that humanity transcends borders and politics.
“We refuse to let our loved ones become mere statistics of a conflict; they are individuals with dreams, hopes, and a right to safety. “Please, let our voices be heard. We cannot bear the thought of another day of uncertainty and fear.”
