Scotland’s leader, Humza Yousaf, has expressed concern for his wife’s parents who are currently trapped in Gaza and running out of essential supplies. Yousaf’s parents-in-law, Elizabeth and Maged El-Nakla, were visiting relatives in Gaza when the recent conflict between Hamas militants and Israel erupted, resulting in the deaths of over 1,300 people. Israel has responded with retaliatory strikes, killing approximately 2,750 people and imposing a total blockade on the Palestinian enclave.
Yousaf revealed that his parents-in-law have been surviving on limited rations, including just one egg a day and sips of clean water, in order to ensure there is enough food for their grandchildren. However, their supplies are quickly depleting, and if the border remains closed, they could face dire consequences. Yousaf fears that without access to food and water, his in-laws may not survive. He shared this information based on short phone calls with them over patchy phone lines.
While Yousaf acknowledges Israel’s right to defend itself, he strongly believes that the country’s actions constitute an illegal form of collective punishment. He criticized the British government for providing unwavering support to Israel without questioning its response. Yousaf emphasized that collective punishment is a breach of international law, and he called for a more measured approach to the situation.
As the first Muslim leader of a Western European country in modern times, Yousaf has shown solidarity with both sides of the conflict. He recently visited a synagogue in Scotland to offer condolences to the family of a Jewish man who died in Israel, stating that their grief is his grief. Yousaf believes in promoting inclusivity, social liberalism, and multiculturalism in Scotland, drawing from his own background as the son of a Pakistani father and Kenyan mother.
Scotland has a semi-autonomous government responsible for issues such as health and education, while foreign policy decisions are made by the British government in London. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has urged Israel to defend itself in accordance with international humanitarian law. Diplomatic efforts are ongoing to provide aid to Gaza, where food, fuel, and water supplies are rapidly diminishing.
Yousaf’s brother-in-law, a doctor, is currently facing the harrowing task of deciding who should receive medical treatment as hospitals in Gaza run out of body bags. The situation is becoming increasingly dire, and Yousaf emphasizes the urgent need for international intervention. He believes that if the international community fails to act, it will be a stain on their conscience for years to come.
Yousaf’s personal connection to the conflict adds a deeply emotional dimension to his plea for assistance. His wife was born in Dundee to a Palestinian father and Scottish mother, making the situation in Gaza deeply personal for their family. Yousaf’s concern for his in-laws’ well-being reflects the anguish felt by many families who have loved ones trapped in the conflict zone.
As the world watches the devastating events unfold in Gaza, it is crucial for governments and international organizations to prioritize humanitarian aid and work towards a peaceful resolution. The suffering of innocent civilians, like Yousaf’s parents-in-law, must not be overlooked or forgotten. The urgency of the situation demands immediate action to prevent further loss of life and alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.