The Sulala Animal Rescue team in Gaza has confirmed that their veterinarian, Dr. Mu’ath Abu Rakba, has died. He had been missing since October 10, when he tried to return to his home in the Jabalia neighborhood in northern Gaza.
For days, his family and colleagues had no news about his whereabouts. People sent to look for him could not reach the area because of constant gunfire.
“With deep sorrow and grief, we mourn the tragic death of our friend, veterinarian Dr. Mu’ath Abu Rukba, who was killed in Jabalia while checking on his home,” Sulala Animal Rescua said in a post on Sunday.
“He was an example of good manners and generosity, carrying a message of mercy to animals and humans alike. May God have mercy on you, Mu’ath, and may you remain in our hearts and fond memories,” Sulala Animal Rescue added.
The area where Dr. Mu’ath went missing is near the so-called “yellow line”, a ceasefire boundary in Gaza. This line, created during the recent peace agreement, is unclear and has caused confusion and danger.
Israeli forces still control parts of northern Gaza, including Jabalia. Moving around these areas is extremely dangerous due to ongoing fighting.
‘Compassionate and brave’
Dr. Mu’ath was one of the few veterinarians in northern Gaza trained to perform surgeries on animals. He worked in extremely dangerous conditions, without electricity, limited medical supplies, and no safe shelter.
Animal rights groups around the world had spoken out after Dr. Mu’ath disappeared. Many hoped international pressure would help find him. Now, they are mourning his loss and calling for better protection of rescue workers in conflict zones.
“He was skilled, dedicated, compassionate and brave. He continued to save lives and alleviate so much suffering as his world was destroyed around him,” animal welfare organization Animala Australia said.
“A veterinarian who kept saving lives while his own was under constant threat, treating injured animals, feeding the hungry, and working under airstrikes and in the most impossible situation, even after losing his home,” famous American dog trainer Zak George said. “He has embodied the very heart of this profession and what we in the animal care space stand for: compassion, and courage.”
Animals continue to suffer in Gaza
Dr. Mu’ath worked with Sulala Animal Rescue, the only animal rescue group still active in Gaza since the war began. The organization rescues dogs, cats, donkeys, and other animals trapped or injured in bombed areas.
Since the start of the war, Gaza’s animals have suffered greatly. Many have been killed in airstrikes or left to starve when their owners fled. With a total blockade in place, it has become almost impossible to bring in veterinary medicine, animal food, or basic care supplies.
Sulala Animal Rescue has shared many reports of animals dying from untreated injuries, hunger, and dehydration. Dr. Mu’ath was one of the last professionals able to help them.
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Disclaimer : This story is auto aggregated by a computer programme and has not been created or edited by DOWNTHENEWS. Publisher: theanimalreader.com
