Please help me help my friend Sadiq in Gaza start a new life

Hi. My name is Richard Schuhmann. I’m an American and a former academic (Penn State, MIT). My very close friend and academic colleague, Prof. Sadiq Abdellal, is currently in Gaza. I am raising funds on behalf of Sadiq and his family.

I met my good friend Sadiq almost two decades ago during his Ph.D. studies in engineering at the Technische Universität Berlin. After earning his doctorate, Sadiq returned home to Gaza, where he took on the role of an assistant professor, eagerly applying his expertise and contributing to his community. We remained in touch during this time, sharing updates on our families, careers, and lives.

In October 2023, everything changed, and since then, Sadiq and his family have had to endure unimaginable hardship. Their home and entire residential square were completely destroyed in an airstrike in which, tragically, many of his close family members were killed or severely injured.

Sadiq and his family now live under the blockade with no income, limited resources, and continued incomprehensible violence in a tent in Khan Younis, in southern Gaza, struggling to survive amidst the ongoing war. They have exhausted their savings and are living tenuously day to day, doing everything they can to care for their five young children, who are deprived of even the most basic necessities. Their tent offers little protection from the elements or the ongoing war, leaving them constantly vulnerable to shrapnel and further military incursions.

However, amidst these devastating circumstances, there is hope. Sadiq has received an amazing scholarship opportunity, allowing him to resume his academic work far outside of Gaza, where he can continue to contribute meaningfully to his field.

The scholarship, while amazing, does not cover the critical costs of relocating and supporting his family, and he cannot simply leave them behind. He now faces the immense challenge of securing the necessary funds to ensure their safety and stability. He is my friend, and I have promised to help him.

The only viable way out of Gaza is through the Rafah crossing into Egypt. To relocate with his wife and five young children, Sadiq urgently needs to raise $55,000 to cover the following essential expenses:

• Border Crossing Fees from Gaza to Egypt through Rafah.

• Travel Expenses (tickets, visas, and passports)

• Housing and basic living needs.

Sadiq and I are making an urgent appeal to anyone who reads this message. Your support can be life-changing for Sadiq and his family, helping them survive this catastrophe and rebuild their lives. You know that our strength lies in numbers, so even the smallest contribution becomes meaningful.

If you are unable to contribute financially, we deeply appreciate any efforts on your part to share this message with others in your network who may be able to help.

Sincerely,

Richard Schuhmann