Family Of Scottish First Minister Humza Yousaf Escape Gaza

Scottish First Minister Humza Yousaf. Picture date: Monday April 17, 2023. (Press Association via AP Images)

Scotland’s First Minister Humza Yousaf announced that his parents-in-law have safely exited the Gaza Strip, following a harrowing three-week confinement in the conflict-torn region.

The couple, Elizabeth El-Nakla and Maged El-Nakla, the parents of Yousaf’s wife Nadia El-Nakla, had travelled to Gaza to visit an ill relative. They became trapped in Gaza due to the escalating hostilities that followed the attacks on Israel initiated by Hamas.

“We are very pleased to confirm that Nadia’s parents were able to leave Gaza through the Rafah crossing this morning,” a joint statement from Yousaf and El-Nakla expressed relief and gratitude for the support received during this crisis.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office’s crisis team was among the key players thanked for their assistance in ensuring the safe passage of the Dundee-based British nationals out of Gaza.

“This morning’s success is a result of the tireless efforts of various individuals and agencies,” the statement continued. “These last four weeks have been a living nightmare for our family. We are so thankful for all of the messages of comfort and prayers that we have received from across the world, and indeed from across the political spectrum in Scotland and the UK.”

Approximately 200 British citizens were estimated to have been caught in Gaza after the region’s exit routes were sealed subsequent to the 7th October attacks by Hamas. In response, the Israeli military has undertaken a significant aerial bombardment campaign in Gaza, enacted a stringent blockade, and initiated a ground offensive particularly focused in the northern sectors of the Strip.