A 31-year-old Palestinian man, Muhammad Abu Dakha, successfully escaped from Gaza to Europe after a challenging journey that involved creativity, financial investment, setbacks, and even a jet ski. Abu Dakha chronicled his experience through various forms of media and shared his story with Reuters, along with interviews with his companions and relatives in Gaza.
In April 2024, Abu Dakha left Gaza through the Rafah border into Egypt, paying $5,000 for the journey. His initial attempt to seek asylum in China was unsuccessful, leading him back to Egypt before moving on to Malaysia and Indonesia. Despite facing risks in Libya, known for migrant exploitation, Abu Dakha eventually embarked on a unique journey to Italy using a jet ski.
After ten failed attempts with smugglers, Abu Dakha purchased a jet ski and essential equipment, including a GPS and life jackets, for a total investment of $6,500. Accompanied by two other Palestinians, they navigated the sea for 12 hours, evading a Tunisian patrol boat and calling for rescue near Lampedusa, Italy.
Their unusual arrival on a jet ski caught the attention of authorities and media. The trio was rescued by a Romanian patrol boat participating in a Frontex mission. The UNHCR confirmed their arrival in Italy, acknowledging the extraordinary nature of their journey.
Subsequently, Abu Dakha and his companions were transferred to various locations in Italy before he continued his journey to Germany. He applied for asylum and is currently waiting for his case to be reviewed, hoping to bring his family to join him.
Abu Dakha’s family remains displaced in Gaza, with their home destroyed. Despite the challenges, he remains determined to secure a better future for his family in Germany.