‘Every day could cost lives’: UK government blocks Gaza families’ reunion
Summary
The UK government is preventing Palestinian families from Gaza from reuniting with relatives in the UK by requiring biometric data that cannot be provided because the only registration center in Gaza is closed. Despite a court ruling in favor of family reunification, the government is appealing and keeping rules that delay families from coming together amid ongoing violence in Gaza.Key Facts
- Between 250 and 300 people in the UK are legally trying to reunite with family members trapped in Gaza.
- An Upper Tribunal court ruled on September 30, 2025, that families should be reunited, but the UK Home Office is appealing the decision.
- The UK government requires biometric data (like fingerprints) for visas, but Gaza’s visa center has been closed since October 2023, making it impossible to provide this data.
- Families are separated while Israel continues to bomb Gaza, even after a ceasefire agreement in October 2025.
- The UK has allowed some exceptions, such as medical evacuations and scholarship students leaving Gaza to provide biometrics elsewhere, but not for family reunifications.
- The delays and restrictions cause emotional distress to separated family members living apart during dangerous conditions.
- Lawyers call the situation a bureaucratic "catch-22," meaning families cannot meet visa requirements because of circumstances beyond their control.
- The UK government continues to maintain security checks on applicants despite the challenges in Gaza.
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