'I’ve had a lot of hugs' – support for Inverness doctor trying to save family in Gaza
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An Inverness doctor has been struck by the support shown after speaking publicly about the plight of his family who are trapped in Gaza in the intensifying Israel-Hamas war.
Salim Ghayyda says he is experiencing the generosity of the Scottish people after revealing his fears for the lives of his elderly parents, brothers and sisters and extended family.
Dr Ghayyda, a paediatric consultant at Raigmore Hospital, is desperately trying any means possible to get them to safety.
His case was also brought to the attention of Andrew Mitchell, Minister of State at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, during a UK Parliamentary debate this week.
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Dr Ghayyda, who has lived and worked in the UK for 21 years, previously spoke to the Inverness Courier about his anguish and sense of hopelessness in trying to get his family to safety after they were uprooted several times and are currently living in self-built tents or cramped accommodation near Rafah.
"I’ve had a lot of hugs, words of sympathy and support," he said.
"Donations are still ongoing from the Highlands and beyond.
"I am experiencing the Scottish people’s generosity, steadfast compassionate human values and deep sense of justice for all.
"Unfortunately, the reply from the Westminster Minister was dismissive, lacked any warmth, and offended me as a British citizen.
"My family are still in dire circumstances, constantly falling ill to communicable diseases, food is very scarce but also lacking in any quality.
"It’s very cold at the moment so the ones in tents are suffering the most."
Dr Ghayyda also spoken of his heartache at seeing TV and media images of hospitals in Gaza where he once treated patients as a young doctor being bombarded.
After meeting Dr Ghayyda, Inverness MP Drew Hendry raised the case during a Westminster debate.
Mr Hendry has written again to Lord Cameron, Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, urging him to support UK families who are terrified for the safety of their loved ones.
He also intends to present a petition in the House of Commons to show the weight of support Dr Ghayyda and his family have from the local community.
