After waiting and seeking assistance, a family of Canadian permanent residents stranded in Gaza has received clearance to exit the besieged and bombarded region next week. Karim Abushbak, 21, expressed relief, stating that he is anxiously counting down the moments. The family was caught in Gaza during Israel’s military campaign following Hamas-led attacks on southern Israel in October 2023. Displaced multiple times due to airstrikes and ground assaults, the family faces the threat of a worsening famine due to Israel’s aid restrictions.
As permanent residents, they require a PR card or a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) to return to Canada. While Abushbak’s older sister swiftly obtained approval to travel back to Canada after a brief application process, the rest of the family has been in uncertainty since applying for PRTDs in May.
Recent developments saw Israel urging Palestinians to evacuate Gaza City amidst escalating airstrikes preceding Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s announcement of an imminent ground operation. The warning triggered panic and uncertainty among Palestinians, who feel there are no safe havens available.
The prospect of a negotiated ceasefire remains uncertain following an Israeli airstrike on Hamas political leaders in Qatar. Netanyahu justified the strike as retaliation for a fatal shooting at a Jerusalem bus stop. Abushbak and his family have since relocated from Gaza City to Deir al-Balah, a nearby city, detailing the peril they faced and the challenges of their journey.
The family’s PRTDs were approved last week, allowing them to potentially depart Gaza this week after months of persistent efforts. However, the emotional toll of leaving behind loved ones and the uncertainty of returning to a devastated Gaza loom large. Despite the hardships, the family prioritizes safety and hopes for a better future, expressing gratitude for the opportunity but acknowledging the sacrifices involved.