Twin sisters set to study at UW killed in Israeli airstrike

An Israeli airstrike in Gaza is being blamed for the deaths of two University of Waterloo students.

The schools confirmed the deaths of twin sisters Dalia Ghazi Ibaid and Sally Ghazi Ibaid. The pair were planning to come to Waterloo Region to do their PhDs in System Design Engineering.

The airstrike took place in Gaza on Thursday, Dec. 5, according to a statement released by the university.

“The University of Waterloo is deeply saddened to share the news of the deaths of two students: Dalia Ghazi Ibaid and Sally Ghazi Ibaid,” reads the statement.

“Dalia and Sally were selected for the prestigious Student Relief Fellowship (SRF) based on their outstanding academic achievement and demonstrated research potential.”

The girls’ family also commented on the tragic news.

“We (the family) would like to thank you (the people working on the fellowship) for helping Sally and Dalia. Unlike the last year, in the last few days, the twins were vibrant, bubbly, excited and full of dreams and ambitions. They constantly talked about their PhD study, jokingly calling each other Dr Sally and Dr Dalia, and talking about the things they want to do in Canada. Through your help they saw an end to their and our suffering. You gave them and us hope. Unfortunately, they did not get their opportunity to realize their dreams. Thank you for caring about and helping our daughters.”

UW officials have also shared resources for anyone feeling “overwhelmed or anxious” by this news.

The institution notes there are both in-person and virtual supports available for students through Counselling Services at Campus Wellness (519-888-4096).