Request for Evacuation from Gaza
By Jan Keulen
The situation in Gaza is “crazy, sad, unbearable”. Mohammed sends me his news via WhatsApp practically every day. It feels like I am receiving mail from hell. I wonder when the reports of hungry Gazans being shot during food distributions and of families being exterminated in their tents will stop. When will the nightmare finally end?
Mohammed wants to leave Gaza. He wants to protect his three daughters and give them a future. He wants to get out of a situation where “death surrounds us constantly and everywhere”. I send Mohammed photos and a video of the large Red Line demonstrations in The Hague. I also forward him the emails from donors. Mohammed is grateful for the expressions of solidarity, for the donations, for the kind and encouraging messages. But every day he asks: why can’t I travel?
Mohammed was injured a few weeks ago. Bomb shrapnel is still in his body and he actually needs an operation. But the health system in Gaza has been dismantled by Israel. The few hospitals that are still somewhat functional do not have the capacity for treating Mohammed at this time.
Mohammed sent me the following request:
Request for Evacuation from Gaza
To the honorable entities and individuals who care about us!
Warm greetings,
I’m Mohammed Shehta Hasan Abu Afash, a civilian currently residing in Gaza Strip, and I am writing to you today with an urgent humanitarian plea.
For nearly two years, my family and I, have been trapped under the ongoing war, devastation, and fear — enduring severe hardship, hunger, and a complete lack of the most basic necessities of life.
I respectfully request urgent humanitarian evacuation for myself and my family to any safe country governed by civil law and respect for human rights.
I affirm that I am a completely unaffiliated civilian with no ties to any armed faction. I have never participated in any activity that would violate the law or endanger others. Throughout my life, I have been a productive member of society, respectful of both law and humanity.
All I seek is the opportunity to live in peace — in a secure and stable environment where I can resume a normal life and contribute positively to the society that may welcome me.
I hereby pledge that I will be a law-abiding, responsible, and productive citizen, fully committed to the legal, ethical, and civil obligations of the country that grants me and my family refuge and dignity.
This appeal is not a demand but a plea to your human conscience. I know your countries uphold the principles of human dignity, compassion, and the protection of those in danger — and I turn to you in hope.
With deepest respect and appreciation,
Sincerely,
Mohammed Shehta Hasan Abu Afash
Gaza – Palestine
Mohammed’s words cut through my soul because, in the short term, his call will probably not be heard. Israel keeps the Rafah border crossing with Egypt closed. European countries, including the Netherlands, have shown no interest in taking in citizens from Gaza. Even the tens of thousands of Gazans who urgently need medical care are waiting in vain for their evacuation to a hospital abroad.
Until then, it is possible to support Mohammed’s family and loved ones financially. You can also send a message via Go Fund Me (see Contact), I will forward your messages to Mohammed.