My name is Dr Mohammed Ashurafa, a Palestinian lecturer based in Scotland at the University of St Andrews. I am writing as a son asking for urgent help to save my father, Bahjat Alshurafa, who is currently in Gaza and in critical condition.

He has suffered a severe heart attack (STEMI) and urgently requires a life-saving procedure (PCI) to the left anterior descending artery, known as the “widow-maker.” Without immediate treatment in an advanced cardiac centre, he faces a high risk of heart failure or death. Doctors have made clear that his condition is critical and time-sensitive.

Due to the destruction of healthcare infrastructure in Gaza, the treatment he needs is not reliably available. Delays caused by limited resources and movement restrictions put his life at even greater risk. The United Kingdom has the facilities and expertise required to provide the urgent care he needs.

If granted a visa, my father will stay with me in Scotland. I will take full responsibility for his care and cover his living expenses. I respectfully ask the UK government to support or sponsor his medical treatment on compassionate grounds in this life-threatening situation.

My father will fully comply with all visa conditions and will return to Gaza after completing his treatment. He has strong ties that ensure his return.

This case highlights the urgent need for more compassionate medical visa processes for people in conflict-affected areas, where access to life-saving care is severely limited.

I respectfully urge you to act now. Granting this visa could save my father’s life.