In the wake of an Israeli bombardment in Gaza, a newborn emerged into the world through a C-section after tragically losing its mother, Hanadi Abu Amsha. Despite doctors’ efforts, Hanadisuccumbed to her wounds, leaving the baby orphaned before birth, as the entire family is presumed killed.
The infant is currently under intensive care at Al-Aqsa Hospital in Deir al-Balah. The dire situation in Gaza prompted UNICEF to label it as the “most dangerous place in the world to be a child.” The organization condemned Israel’s three-month onslaught on Palestinians, emphasizing the alarming impact on the youngest members of society.
Ted Chaiban, UNICEF’s deputy executive director, expressed concern, stating that the situation in Gaza has shifted “from catastrophic to near collapse” after witnessing the aftermath firsthand.
The toll on children in Gaza is devastating, with nearly 25,000 reported deaths since the escalation in hostilities, and up to 70 per cent being women and children. UNICEF called for an immediate end to the killing of children.
One heartbreaking account is that of Sama, who was hit by shrapnel during a bombardment while skipping with friends. Sama underwent surgery to remove her spleen and is now recovering in a hospital, isolated due to being immunocompromised in a war zone filled with disease and infection.
The Gaza Health Ministry reported over 25,000 Palestinians killed and more than 60,000 wounded during Israel’s offensive, with around two-thirds being women and children. Amid this crisis, the UN children’s agency revealed that approximately 20,000 babies have been born into the war since October 7, averaging one birth every 10 minutes.
In a stark contrast to the joyous occasion it should be, becoming a mother in Gaza is described as bringing a child into hell. The urgency to address the humanitarian crisis and protect innocent lives remains paramount.
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