Palestinian Student Stuck in Gaza Amid Evacuations to Ireland

URGENT UPDATE: A Palestinian student, Shaker Albuhaisi, is feeling “devastated” after being unable to leave Gaza for a scholarship at University College Dublin (UCD). As over 50 students evacuated to Ireland, Albuhaisi, who holds a scholarship for a year-long graduate program in biological and biomolecular science, remains trapped.

Albuhaisi’s situation is critical as he was set to begin classes on September 8, but he has not been informed about the evacuation. “I feel I have been forgotten and left behind,” said the 22-year-old from Deir al-Balah refugee camp. Despite having received approval from Israeli authorities and securing most of the necessary paperwork, he was not included in the evacuation.

The recent evacuations raise urgent concerns. Albuhaisi learned about the students’ departure only after it occurred, leaving him feeling isolated. He has reached out to the Representative Office of Ireland in Ramallah for assistance, but he fears that he may not be evacuated for another 30 days at best.

Amid escalating tensions, the Israeli military has initiated operations around Gaza City, intensifying fears of a full-scale invasion. “The ongoing conflict has made life nearly impossible,” Albuhaisi said, highlighting the dire conditions faced by nearly a quarter of Gaza’s population who are experiencing famine.

“We are struggling to survive,” he added, emphasizing the daily threat to life. Albuhaisi, a graduate of Al-Azhar University, had his institution destroyed due to the conflict, compounding his sense of urgency to escape.

“I hope to be evacuated as soon as possible to secure my place at UCD and build a better future,” he stated. Acknowledging the support from UCD, he expressed appreciation for Ireland’s commitment to the Palestinian people.

Officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs have declined to comment on individual cases, leaving Albuhaisi’s future uncertain as he watches others leave for opportunities abroad.

The urgency of his plea resonates with many who are witnessing the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Albuhaisi’s story underscores the profound personal impact of geopolitical conflicts and the desperate struggle for education amid chaos.

As events unfold, the world watches closely, hoping for a resolution that allows students like Albuhaisi to pursue their dreams.