SEREMBAN: Palestinian Dr Wesam Almahallawi (pic), who has lost 19 family members following Israel’s bombardment of Gaza in recent days, is praying that a ceasefire will be called soon.
Wesam, a lecturer at Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia in Nilai, Negri Sembilan, said the people of Gaza, including his remaining family members, have been living in misery since Israel began its assault of the Palestinian city.
“I am praying that a ceasefire is called in Gaza soonest. Every other day has been a struggle and the people there have been suffering ever since the attacks started,” he said.
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Wesam, who works at the university’s Leadership and Management Faculty, said he constantly worries for his parents and siblings. His younger brother, aunt and first cousins were among family members killed after Israeli forces assaulted the city in response to Hamas attacks on Oct 7.
The youngest victim was only two. He said the deceased lived in the same building occupied by some 200 others.
“My parents, a younger brother and two younger sisters survived the attack. It has been extremely difficult to contact them since,” he said.
Wesam said it took them days to reply to his text messages, adding that Israeli authorities have blocked telephone and Internet connectivity in Gaza. He also said he had last heard from another sister who lives in the northern part of Gaza four days ago.
Tragic loss: Wesam’s nieces and nephew (inset) who perished in the attack.
“My 68-year-old father and 65-year-old mother are constantly on the move, being forced to seek shelter in buildings which are still standing,” he said.
Wesam said they live in constant fear as the bombardment can be carried out at any time.
“The people of Gaza have also been facing difficulties getting food and water on a daily basis.
“I asked my family if they needed money, but they told me it was pointless as the city has been destroyed and there was nothing they could buy,” he added.
