ANKARA, Aug 17 – Australian authorities have denied entry to the children of a war victim who was killed in the Gaza Strip, whose brother lives in Australia, according to a media report.
Anadolu Agency (AA) reported that Zuhair El Henday, who has lived in New South Wales (NSW) for several years, said he tried his best but failed to secure visas for his remaining family in Gaza.
“I have proven that I have been a true citizen and I contribute to this country, contribute to the community. So, why don’t I have the right to get my family here to make them safe?” it cited El Henday told SBS (Special Broadcasting Service) News on Friday.
His sister, Lubna, her husband, two sons and son-in-law were killed in an Israeli airstrike on their home in Gaza City last November while three of El Henday’s nieces survived the strike.
El Henday’s revelation came after Australian opposition leader Peter Dutton’s latest demand to ban Palestinians fleeing Gaza from entering Australia.
The demand has triggered a backlash from the government and civil society organisations.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the opposition leader has always looked to divide communities.
Nasser Mashni, president of Australia Palestine Advocacy Network, slammed Dutton and said his comment as “shameful.”
