Scottish Prime Minister Yusuf Reacts to British Minister’s Omission of British Citizens in Gaza
Yusuf Calls Out British Minister for Ignoring British Citizens Stranded in Gaza
Amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza, prominent Islamic scholar Hamza Yusuf has criticized British Minister Cleverly for failing to acknowledge the dire situation of British nationals trapped in the region. Cleverly had recently outlined his goals for upcoming discussions in Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey, but omitted any mention of the stranded citizens.
Responding to Cleverly’s post, the Scottish Prime Minister voiced his disappointment, saying, “It is a shame that there is no mention of British nationals trapped in Gaza. It may be useful to mention them at least briefly in your discussions. They are trapped in a war zone and they want you, as Foreign Secretary, to demand a ceasefire and open the Rafah Border Gate to allow them to leave Gaza.”
Cleverly had stated in his post that his objectives were clear: to secure the release of British hostages, halt the escalation of violence in the region, and ensure that emergency aid reaches Gaza. However, his lack of attention towards the stranded British citizens drew criticism.
Adding further urgency to the matter, Yusuf disclosed that his wife’s parents, who reside in Scotland, were among those trapped in Gaza. They had traveled to the region to visit his father-in-law’s ailing 92-year-old mother but found themselves stuck amidst the escalating conflict between Israel and Gaza.
Although the Israelis had instructed them to leave the country, leaving Gaza proved impossible due to the prevailing circumstances. Furthermore, Yusuf pointed out that the British Foreign Office could not guarantee their safe passage out of the war-torn region.
In a heart-wrenching video shared by Yusuf’s mother-in-law, Elizabeth El-Nakla, who remains stranded in Gaza, she pleaded, “Where is humanity? Where in the world do people have hearts that allow this in this age?”
The plight of the British citizens trapped in Gaza highlights the need for immediate action from international authorities. As the conflict rages on, it is crucial to prioritize their safety and well-being, and work towards a solution that enables their safe exit from the war zone.
