After enduring months of hardship, a Canadian family with permanent residency in Gaza has finally received permission to leave the war-torn region next week. Karim Abushbak, 21, expressed his relief and anxiety, stating that they are eagerly anticipating a safe journey after facing numerous challenges during the conflict.
The Abushbak family found themselves caught in the crossfire as Israel launched a military campaign following Hamas-led attacks on southern Israel in October 2023. Displaced multiple times due to airstrikes and ground assaults, they have struggled amid a growing humanitarian crisis exacerbated by Israel’s aid restrictions.
As permanent residents, the family required valid travel documents to return to Canada. While one sibling secured approval earlier, the rest awaited authorization for their Permanent Resident Travel Documents (PRTDs) since May. Amid escalating airstrikes in Gaza City and warnings of an imminent ground operation by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, fear and uncertainty gripped the local population.
Efforts for a ceasefire were further complicated by Israel’s airstrike on Hamas leaders in Qatar as a retaliatory measure. Abushbak and his family, having relocated to Deir al-Balah from Gaza City, shared their reasons for leaving and the challenges they faced during their journey, highlighting the emotional toll of leaving loved ones behind.
With their PRTDs approved, the family is preparing to depart Gaza this week, marking the culmination of months of persistence and uncertainty. Despite the imminent departure, they acknowledge the emotional hardships of leaving behind family, friends, and their homeland. Looking ahead, Abushbak remains hopeful for a safe return to Gaza once the conflict subsides, expressing a desire for peace and stability in the region.