A terrible catastrophe that has left the community in shock has occurred in the middle of the ongoing fighting in the Gaza Strip. In Gaza, family members gathered somberly around a little sandy tomb to say goodbye to a newborn girl who had been struck by an Israeli airstrike and had only survived a few days after being delivered from her dying mother.
A community’s sorrow and a mother’s sacrifice
The infant, named Rouh, which means “soul,” and Sabreen after her late mother, Sabreen al-Sakani al-Sheikh, was born too soon after she suffered severe injuries in an Israeli attack on their Rafah home. Sadly, Shukri, Sabreen’s spouse, and Malak, their three-year-old daughter, perished in the same incident.
The infant’s frail health could not be maintained despite the efforts of medical specialists, notably Emirati Hospital’s emergency neo-natal unit head, Doctor Mohammad Salama. Her family and community were devastated when she passed away on Thursday. She was born with respiratory issues and a compromised immune system.
Dr. Salama bemoaned the catastrophic effects of the ongoing fighting on Gaza’s medical system, pointing out that efforts to rescue lives have been hampered by hospital destruction and scarce resources. The six-month conflict between Israel and Hamas militants has resulted in the tragic loss of innocent civilian lives, especially women and children.
The grandmother of the child had prayed desperately for the baby to live as a memorial to her departed loved ones. But, it was not to be, and the family is currently dealing with the devastating loss of their sister, daughter, and granddaughter.
A Devastated Family Reflects on Loss
Rami al-Sheikh Jouda, the baby’s uncle, spoke from the depths of sadness when he described the family’s agony at the tragic turn of events. He remembered going to the hospital every day in the hopes of hearing good news, only to get the heartbreaking call that the baby had died. There is an unfillable emptiness with the loss of Rouh, her immediate family, and their treasured memories.
Conclusion
The loss of the baby born amidst the chaos of conflict serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of war. As Gazans mourn the untimely deaths of innocent lives, the international community must strive for lasting peace and an end to the cycle of violence that continues to inflict suffering on all sides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the baby named Sabreen Rouh?
The baby was named Sabreen after her deceased mother and Rouh, which means “soul,” as a tribute to her brief but meaningful existence.
What impact has the conflict had on Gaza’s healthcare system?
The conflict has resulted in the destruction of hospitals and shortages of essential medical supplies, severely compromising healthcare services in Gaza.
How many casualties have been reported in the Gaza conflict?
According to the Gaza health ministry, over 34,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, have been confirmed killed in the six-month-old conflict.
Is there hope for peace in Gaza?
While the situation remains dire, efforts by the international community to broker peace negotiations offer a glimmer of hope for a resolution to the conflict.
How can individuals support those affected by the conflict in Gaza?
Donations to reputable humanitarian organizations providing aid and support to Gazans can make a meaningful difference in alleviating suffering and rebuilding communities.