"No parent is going to do that": Shafai family from Massachusetts trapped in Gaza told they can leave without their children
UPDATE, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 7: Plymouth family escapes Gaza into Egypt after month-long ordeal
PLYMOUTH - With celebratory news of Americans finally escaping the war zone in Gaza where they've been stuck for weeks, the Shafai family from Plymouth is still trapped and growing desperate.
"They had the names of my brother and his wife on the list, but they didn't have the kids," said Hani Shafai. His brother Hazem and his wife Sanaa were excited to see their names on a list customs authorities put out naming people who could cross into Egypt to safety. The problem was, there was no mention of their three children. "They were told they can cross, but they have to leave the kids behind. And, as you know, no parent is going to do that, and he said no," said Hani Shafai.
Supplies have been dwindling, drinking water is scarce. The couple's youngest, their 2-year-old son, is sick. "Their son had diarrhea, throwing up and and some fever. So I asked him how he's doing today and if they were able to see a doctor. He said he couldn't reach a doctor," said Hani Shafai.
Senators Elizabeth Warren and Ed Markey sent a letter to the secretary of state saying "…civilians in Gaza desperately need more humanitarian aid more quickly…" The letter went on to say ,"We urge you to continue to work through our partners to provide safe passage for Americans trying to leave Gaza, including a family from Plymouth, Massachusetts…"
News of other U.S. citizens with children getting out in the last few days, including the Okal family from Medway, gives the Shafais reason to stay positive. "It's actually great news. The reason I say that, it gives a lot of hope," said Hani Shafai.
The family is hunkered down in a room with about 20 people. They said the trip from there to the Rafah border is dangerous and takes a toll on the children. They don't want to do it again unless they have a guarantee the whole family can get out together.
