Rockets streaked through the morning sky in Gaza on Oct. 7 as families welcomed newborns amidst the ongoing conflict. Amal Al-Taweel and her husband Mustafa finally held their son Ali after a difficult birth, while Rola Saqer gave birth to her daughter Masa as Israeli airstrikes raged nearby.
Both families have faced immense challenges as their homes were destroyed by airstrikes, leaving them with no reliable shelter, limited access to medical treatment, and baby supplies. The infants have experienced malnutrition and health issues due to the dire circumstances.
Seeking safety, the families moved to overcrowded Rafah, where they lived in tents and faced severe shortages of food, water, and basic necessities. The ongoing conflict has displaced over 80% of the population in Gaza, pushing many into a humanitarian crisis.
Despite their efforts to provide for their children, the families have struggled to meet their basic needs. Ali and Masa have faced health issues, with Ali diagnosed with gastroenteritis and Masa showing signs of malnutrition.
The families have tried to seek medical treatment for their children, but Gaza's health sector has been severely impacted by the conflict, with many hospitals unable to operate fully due to fuel and medicine shortages.
As they contemplate the future, the families fear that their children's lives will not be what they had hoped for. Saqer expressed concerns about returning to their home in northern Gaza, as it likely lies in ruins. The families continue to endure hardships, with uncertain prospects for the future.
