Mariam Sabbah, 10, to get specialist care in Britain instead of US, after Trump halted visitor visas for Palestinians
A Palestinian child who lost her arm during Israel’s bombardment of Gaza arrived in the UK for specialist treatment on Tuesday, amid ongoing pressure on the British government to step up efforts to help evacuate critically ill and injured children from the territory.
Mariam Sabbah arrived at Heathrow airport with her mother, Fatma Salman, and two brothers. They were met by a small crowd bearing gifts, balloons and bouquets.
The family had been hoping to go to the US for treatment – but since the Trump administration halted visitor visas for all Palestinians in August last year, they have been stuck in limbo in Egypt.
“We’re happy that we’re here, we never thought we would actually be here in the UK,” said Salman, as her children stood nearby with wide smiles. “They were a bit nervous at the beginning, but now when they feel like everyone is around them, they are happy and excited.”
