In a heartbreaking turn of events amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza, doctors in Rafah delivered a baby from a Palestinian woman who had tragically been killed in an Israeli strike. The baby girl, born 10 weeks premature and weighing only three pounds, was brought into the world as an orphan, with her mother Sabreen al-Sakani already deceased.
The emotional moment was captured on video by a journalist from Reuters, showing doctors working tirelessly to resuscitate the newborn as she emerged pale and lifeless from her mother. Dr. Mohammed Salama, head of the neonatal intensive care unit at Al-Emirati Hospital, expressed the profound tragedy of the situation, stating, “Even if this child survives, she was born an orphan.”
The baby’s uncle, Rami al-Sheikh, shared that her older sister, Malak, who also perished in the strike, had wanted to name her Rouh, meaning soul. The family, described as “ordinary civilians,” had been looking forward to welcoming the new addition with joy and anticipation.
Despite the initial perilous state of the baby after her birth, doctors have managed to stabilize her condition, with the exception of some respiratory issues. Dr. Salama noted that the baby will require several weeks of hospital care before a decision is made on her future care arrangements.
As the baby continues to fight for her life, Dr. Salama emphasized the importance of providing her with the necessary care and support, acknowledging the irreplaceable loss of her mother. He stated, “She has been denied everything — denied her mother, denied her milk. Some substitutions can be made, but nothing will ever replace her mother.”
The story of this newborn baby, born into tragedy and loss, serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating impact of the conflict in Gaza on innocent civilians. Despite the challenges ahead, the resilience and determination of the medical team caring for the baby offer a glimmer of hope in the midst of darkness.
