**Scots NHS Doctor and Baby Daughter Stranded in Lebanon Amid Israeli Attacks**
An NHS doctor and her six-month-old daughter find themselves in a dire situation in Lebanon as they are unable to leave the warzone. Manwella Ftouni, along with her husband Abbas and daughter Jana, were visiting family in Lebanon when the Israeli bombardment began. They are currently residing in a cramped two-bedroom flat in Beirut with 20 relatives after fleeing their hometown of Abbassieh in the southern part of Lebanon.
Manwella, a 28-year-old radiology registrar from Glasgow, had planned to introduce her daughter to her relatives in Lebanon before returning from her maternity leave. Little did they know the violence that awaited them just weeks later. Now, they are stranded amidst continuous bombings, with no means of escape. Manwella described the harrowing situation, mentioning the lack of sleep due to the ongoing bombings.
The recent escalation of conflict between Israel and Lebanon stems from a series of events, including actions by Hamas in Gaza and the retaliation by Israeli Defence Forces. Amidst the chaos, around 5,000 British citizens are estimated to be in Lebanon, struggling to find a way out. Reports indicate that the Israeli airstrikes have intensified in Beirut, causing fear and uncertainty among the residents.
Manwella, while focused on securing her daughter’s safety, expressed her concerns for the future of Lebanon and her extended family members. As the situation remains precarious, efforts to evacuate British citizens have been initiated. The Prime Minister has urged UK citizens to leave Lebanon, with troops on standby in Cyprus for potential evacuation needs.
After reaching out to the Foreign Office for assistance, Manwella and her family have been offered an earlier flight out of Lebanon. The Foreign Office has been working to increase flight options and provide support to British nationals caught in the conflict. Efforts are being made to ensure the safety and well-being of all those affected by the ongoing crisis.
Gordon McKee, Labour MP for Glasgow South, has pledged assistance to constituents in similar circumstances and emphasised the necessity of a ceasefire in Lebanon. Urging immediate evacuation, McKee highlighted the UK government’s commitment to de-escalating tensions in the region. As the situation unfolds, international efforts continue to aid those impacted by the escalating conflict.
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This article was originally published in the Daily Record by Hannah Rodger, Sunday Mail Chief Reporter on 29th September 2024.