Minister of Social Affairs challenges deportation of Yazan Tamimi’s family in Norway

Newly released messages between the Minister of Social Affairs and the National Police Commissioner shed light on the situation surrounding Yazan Tamimi and the postponement of his family’s deportation. The Minister of Social Affairs reached out to the National Police Commissioner, who had to make several attempts before hearing back from the Minister of Justice.

Yazan, a twelve-year-old Palestinian boy suffering from muscular dystrophy, along with his parents, was granted international protection. His case highlights differing perspectives within the government regarding immigration issues.

The government’s handling of the case was under scrutiny, with the Minister of Justice admitting on a later talk show that the situation had not been managed normally. Originally, Yazan and his family were scheduled to be deported to Spain on September 16 after their request for protection was denied in March and June, with the authorities asserting that adequate medical assistance was available in Spain.

On the evening prior to the deportation, police conducted an operation to apprehend Yazan and his mother, while simultaneously contacting his father. Importantly, neither the family’s lawyer nor their friends had been informed of the impending deportation, which had been planned since August.

The following Monday morning, concerned ministers approached the Prime Minister regarding the family’s situation. The Minister of Social Affairs requested a delay in the deportation to ensure the rights of disabled individuals were respected, leading to a formal meeting to discuss the matter.

Communications received by the media revealed that the Minister of Justice received calls from colleagues expressing concern, prompting urgent discussions to prevent the deportation and resolve the matter within the government.