Akram's family, consisting of 34 people in total, is currently trapped in Rafah, Gaza. They are living under constant threat of violence due to the war in Gaza. This situation is extremely life-threatening and it’s rapidly getting worse.

Akram, alongside his wife and three daughters, migrated from Gaza to Colac (Victoria) in 2009 and became citizens in 2014. He’s been a devoted doctor to the local community for over ten years now, working in both the town’s clinic and nursing home, while his wife Ely runs a beloved Middle Eastern restaurant called ‘Dar Tèta’ (grandma’s house).

The recent escalation of violence in Gaza since October 7th has been devastating, resulting in a dire humanitarian crisis with over 28,000 killed and 67,000 injured. Just last week, a planned ground attack on Rafah was declared. The United Nations has stated there is nowhere safe to go for the more than a million Palestinians who have already fled there.

Akram’s family members are amongst those severely affected by this crisis. Their lives hang in balance as they remain stuck at Rafah border crossing, unable to escape the escalating violence. They've been displaced four times since losing their homes (six houses collectively, all bulldozed in the attacks) and are now facing starvation, dehydration, and disease due to the severe lack of clean water. Humanitarian aid is terrifyingly scarce, and it’s practically impossible to move from one spot to another without risking safety.

Akram's family consists of his 84-year-old father, four sisters, two brothers, their spouses and their children - the youngest being 2 years old. He applied for visiting visas for them over 9 weeks ago, but there has been no correspondence from the Australian government except for one. While his father has been granted a visa, he is unable to travel alone due to old age and physical limitations.  

Not only is this Akram’s entire bloodline, but they are also innocent civilians living through an unimaginable nightmare and facing the threat of an unlawful death. Their lives matter. Their safety matters. We cannot stand by while his loved ones endure such unjust circumstances. 

We urge the Australian government to expedite their visa process on humanitarian grounds so that they can find refuge here in Australia - a place far removed from their current reality of fear and uncertainty.

Please sign this petition urging our government to act swiftly and decisively to save these innocent lives.