Sameera Casmod | sameerac@radioislam.co.za
07 November 2023 | 10:00 CAT
2-min read
Picture: Radio Islam International
Basma Almaza, a determined young woman pursuing her business administration degree in Malaysia, shares her emotional turmoil and deep concern for her family living in war-ravaged Gaza.
In an interview on Radio Islam International, she described her initial reaction upon learning about the dire situation back home: “I do really long to be there during this time because it was a deeply unsettling experience and it was evident that this time was unlike any other time… Being far away from my homeland made the pain even more unbearable…”
With communication channels severed in the Gaza Strip, Basma said that the last message she received from her family was on 12 October 2023. She recounted the account shared by her mother. “The message I received from my mother described the utter devastation of my neighbourhood.”
Basma highlighted the catastrophic shortage of basic essentials like water, food, electricity and medical supplies.
The toll of the crisis weighs heavily on Basma, who grapples with the uncertainty surrounding her loved ones’ safety. “Your body can’t sleep at night… it’s really hard for me to focus because it’s like I have a background in my head about what’s going on, seeing the suffering, the blood, the genocide,” she expressed, revealing the mental and emotional strain of being physically distant from her family during such an arduous time.
Despite the distance, Basma finds solace in Malaysia’s strong Palestinian solidarity campaigns, which involve impactful protests and the boycotting of products supporting the occupation.
Basma’s message to the Muslim world is strong and clear. “Please, you are the ones who know the real things. You are the ones who know about the Quran message and promises…. Please do what you can do. Boycott those products that support the occupation…”
Basma’s impassioned plea for global support and activism echoes the urgent need for tangible action and solidarity with the people of Gaza. Her courageous spirit serves as a guiding light, urging individuals to persist in their efforts and advocacy for the oppressed. As she continues to navigate the challenges of being separated from her family, her determination to be their voice resonates profoundly in the hearts of those who strive for justice and peace.
In a heartfelt closing message, Basma implored, “Don’t stop sharing. Don’t stop protesting. Don’t stop the boycott. They need you. Today, they do really need this.”
As the war continues in Gaza, Basma’s story stands as a poignant reminder of the resilience and unwavering spirit of those who continue to fight for justice and freedom amid the turmoil.
Listen to the full interview on Sabaahul Muslim with Moulana Sulaimaan Ravat.
Basma Almaza is the author of the article Echoes of Gaza, from afar attached here below. She is also part of a youth-led Palestinian project We are Not Numbers.
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