British-Palestinian parents, teenage daughter die in sea off UK coast

British-Palestinian family, including a 14-year-old daughter, perished off the English south coast, while another daughter remains gravely injured, according to Sussex Police. The victims identified as 55-year-old Hassan El-Khawas, his 37-year-old wife Zeina Alayn, and their daughter Sara El-Khawas. The family had embarked from their London residence to Shoreham-by-Sea in West Sussex earlier in the week.

Rescue efforts, involving police, paramedics, coastguard teams, and lifeboat crews, were activated after four family members were rescued from the sea near Shoreham Fort. Two air ambulances were dispatched to the scene. Initial reports and witness accounts suggest the incident was an unfortunate accident, with no indication of external involvement. The investigation into the circumstances leading to the tragedy is ongoing.

The Palestinian Forum in Britain stated that the family encountered treacherous currents, and Sara became ensnared in a fishing net. Her father attempted to rescue her, but as conditions deteriorated, her mother and younger sister ventured into the water to aid Sara. However, the police have not corroborated reports alleging Sara became entangled in a net. Yusuf and Malak, El-Khawas's other children, were on shore and are being looked after by an uncle.

The Palestinian embassy confirmed the family's British citizenship and Palestinian heritage, tracing their roots to the Rashidieh refugee camp in southern Lebanon. Hassan El-Khawas relocated to Britain approximately a decade ago, according to a neighbor. Eyewitnesses reported turbulent sea conditions and strong winds in the harbor area, cautioning that the currents can pose a significant risk.

British Prime Minister expressed profound sorrow over the incident, urging the public to be cognizant of the perils associated with open-water swimming.