Rescuing a Wedding in Iraq
HALO’s team in Iraq save the day at a family wedding
Finally, it is time for Saad and his mother, Yazi, to celebrate. Saad, the youngest of six brothers, is to marry his fiancée, Zanib. The family have endured some very dark times. When ISIS arrived in their village of Al Baeji, Iraq, in 2014, they were forced to flee. Abandoning their lovely home, they spent three years struggling, displaced and hungry.
When they finally returned to the village, their house was scarred with bullet holes, stripped bare of all belongings, the tractor—vital to allow them to work their land—was ruined.
Tomorrow, is to be a special day—Saad’s wedding to Zanib. Outside, a gaggle of brightly dressed grandchildren jostle for attention, mouths full of toffee. On the roof, colourful rugs are drying in the breeze, ready for the festivities to come.
But Saad and Yazi are worried. For the last three years, a huge unexploded rocket has lain just yards from the front door. The family have kept their distance but they fear, as the house fills with guests, someone could get injured. Saad has already lost two brothers to the conflict.
After seeing HALO working nearby, the family approached and asked if they could assist. Happily, our team was able to safely remove the rocket so that Saad and Zanib could enjoy their wedding.
The team were honoured to be able to celebrate with Saad, Zanib, Yazi and her family—who have suffered the unimaginable but continue to live and love with resilience and joy.
