Gaza Evacuee Describes Grueling 24-Hour Journey to South Africa

A group of 153 Palestinians, including Loay Abu Saif and his family, recently completed a harrowing journey from the Gaza Strip to South Africa, landing at OR Tambo International Airport. The evacuees, who lacked proper documentation, embarked on what Abu Saif described as a “trip of suffering.” He expressed relief upon arrival but noted the uncertainty surrounding their evacuation.

Abu Saif, speaking from Johannesburg on March 15, 2024, recounted the chaotic nature of their departure from Gaza. The family, which includes his wife and children, was unaware of their final destination until they boarded a connecting flight in Nairobi, Kenya. “We were not too convinced that any group would be able to make this kind of evacuation,” he told Al Jazeera. His sentiments resonate with many Palestinians fleeing the ongoing conflict.

Controversial Transit Scheme

Details surrounding the evacuation reveal a complex and controversial transit scheme facilitated by a nonprofit organization, Al-Majd Europe, based in Germany. Reports indicate that the Israeli military played a role in coordinating the transfer of the evacuees through an Israeli airport. According to Abu Saif, the flight departed from Ramon Airport in Israel and made a stop in Nairobi before reaching Johannesburg on March 14.

Upon arrival in South Africa, authorities initially barred the group from disembarking due to the absence of departure stamps on their travel documents. Abu Saif explained that the family departed Gaza without confirmation of their final destination, which only became clear during their transit. This uncertainty highlights the precarious situation faced by many Palestinians seeking safety.

Al Jazeera’s Nour Odeh, reporting from Amman, Jordan, suggested that the Israeli military likely coordinated the evacuation. She emphasized the extreme restrictions in Gaza, stating, “Nobody can approach that imaginary yellow line without being shot at.” This context underscores the challenges faced by those attempting to leave the region.

Evacuation Process and Future Plans

The process of selection for the evacuation involved registering with Al-Majd Europe, which advertised its services on social media. Abu Saif noted that families with children were prioritized, and each individual required a valid Palestinian travel document along with Israeli security clearance. The cost of the journey ranged between $1,400 and $2,000 per person, with the same fee applied for children.

After being selected, the evacuees traveled by bus from Rafah in southern Gaza to the Karem Abu Salem crossing, where they underwent security checks before being transferred to Ramon Airport. Abu Saif mentioned that their documents were not stamped by Israeli authorities, which only became an issue upon their arrival in South Africa.

Once in Johannesburg, the group received temporary assistance from Al-Majd Europe, which indicated they could help for a week or two. Many evacuees have already made plans to relocate to other countries, including Australia, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Abu Saif reported that approximately 30 percent of the passengers left South Africa shortly after arrival.

The South African government confirmed that of the 153 Palestinians who landed, 130 were allowed to enter the country, while 23 continued to other destinations. Abu Saif expressed hope for a better future, stating that living costs in other countries would likely be more manageable compared to conditions in Gaza.

This evacuation sheds light on the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the lengths individuals are willing to go to for safety and stability. As the situation evolves, the stories of those like Loay Abu Saif highlight the dire circumstances that compel families to leave their homes in search of a better life.