The World Health Organization’s regional director for emergencies, Richard Brennan, reported that each of the 31 babies evacuated from Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza is suffering from serious infections. Two more babies died before they could be evacuated, and a third of those transported to a hospital in southern Gaza were in critical condition. The WHO is also unable to locate the children’s parents, adding to the tragedy of the situation.
Brennan stated that 11 of the babies were classified as critical and all of them have serious infections, with many of them having low birth weights. He emphasized the difficult road ahead for these infants. Additionally, he expressed concern about the whereabouts of the babies’ parents, highlighting the heartbreaking aspect of the situation.
Despite the Gaza Health Ministry’s announcement that 30 babies will be transported to Egypt the following day, Brennan cautioned that the transfers would take place in stages, as some of the children were in too critical a condition to be moved. He also noted that approximately 291 patients and 25 staff members remain at Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza.
The situation at Al-Shifa Hospital has been dire since Israel launched its military operation on Gaza last week. According to reports, Israeli forces have bombed hospitals and other civilian targets across Gaza City and other towns.
The United Nations has condemned Israel’s actions as “disproportionate” and “indiscriminate,” calling for an immediate ceasefire. However, Israel has defended its actions as necessary to protect its citizens from rocket attacks by Hamas militants.
In response to Israel’s bombings, Hamas has launched hundreds of rockets into southern Israel. According to reports, several civilians have been killed or injured by these rockets.
The situation continues to worsen as both sides refuse to back down from their positions. It remains unclear when a lasting peace agreement can be reached or how many more lives will be lost before then.
Overall, it is clear that this conflict has left many innocent people caught in its crossfire and left many families without access to basic medical care. It is time for both sides to come together and find a peaceful resolution before more harm is done.