Amidst the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, an evacuation of sick and injured children plus their companions from Gaza to Egypt took place, marking the first medical evacuation since the closure of the territory’s travel crossing in May. The Israeli military, along with officials from the United States, Egypt, and the international community, coordinated the evacuation. This evacuation was a crucial step as the health sector in Gaza has been severely impacted by the nearly nine-month war, leaving thousands in need of medical treatment abroad.
With the Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt closed, the evacuation was conducted through the Kerem Shalom crossing. Many families bid tearful goodbyes to their children as they left for medical treatment, highlighting the urgent need for a more sustainable solution. Organizations like the World Health Organization and Physicians for Human Rights Israel are pushing for a permanent mechanism to facilitate medical evacuations from Gaza.
The Israeli Supreme Court will soon hold a hearing on this matter, while international concerns regarding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continue to grow. The evacuation of these children is a small victory, but more needs to be done to ensure timely and safe passage for all those in critical need of medical care.
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