As the sun set over the region, illuminating the landscape that had long been overshadowed by conflict, a sense of bittersweet relief filled the air. This was the scene experienced by a group of children and their parents as they traveled from war-torn Gaza to sought-after medical treatment in Jordan. Among them was Safa’a Salha, a mother capturing the moment on her mobile. She expressed her astonishment in a message: “Jordan is so beautiful,” juxtaposed against the desolation left behind.
The journey began with a road trip to the Jordanian border before the final leg via helicopter to Amman. The noise of the helicopter drowned out their voices, but the expressions on their faces told a story of hope. Safa’a’s son, 16-year-old Youssef, excitedly showed off the scar from a recent surgery. Despite the tumult, he spoke about his love for football, eager to share joy amid such intense tragedy.
Accompanying them was nine-year-old Sama Awad, frail and anxious, who was diagnosed with a brain tumor and needed urgent surgery. Her mother, Isra, expressed the difficult reality of living in Gaza, stating, “It is horrible. It is impossible to describe,” as they arrived in the safety of Jordan. Isra’s words encapsulate the struggle of Gazans trying to survive despite unimaginable hardships.
Thirty-three children have managed to evacuate to Jordan for medical care, with their journey supported by a plan initiated during a previous meeting between international leaders. Nonetheless, delays and restrictions imposed by Israel have hampered the evacuation of many more sick children in urgent need of assistance. The situation remains dire, as Israel recently confirmed that it would continue to offer medical evacuations amidst ongoing conflict.
In Gaza, an alarming humanitarian crisis is unfolding, with reports indicating an imminent risk of famine for the population of 2.1 million. The United Nations has issued strong warnings about the state of the civilians, urging immediate intervention to prevent further catastrophe.
As the families settle into hospitals in Amman, they join others facing their own battles for survival. The story of Habiba Al-Askari, a young girl who underwent a triple amputation due to a severe infection, reflects the resilience and determination of those affected. Despite adversity, Habiba is learning to adapt, practicing to walk again, with her mother, Rana, expressing hopes for a future return to Gaza, a place she still holds dear.
In the face of death and destruction, these children's journeys illuminate the stark contrasts between the safety of Jordan and the peril of Gaza, leaving many to ponder what awaits them back home. Would they find peace, or would they return to chaos? While their current existence is fraught with uncertainty, one thing remains clear: hope endures, even in the darkest of times.
