Is the Baby from Gaza Back in the Hospital After Treatment Abroad?

A one-year-old Palestinian girl, Siwar Ashour, has returned to Gaza from Jordan after receiving medical treatment for severe nutritional issues but is now back in hospital due to complications. Her case highlights the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, where healthcare facilities are struggling to cope with the influx of patients amid ongoing conflict and shortages of essential supplies.

Last updated: 03 December 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Siwar Ashour was repatriated to Gaza on 3 December 2023 after receiving six months of treatment in Jordan for severe nutritional problems. Since her return, she has been admitted to al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital due to worsening health conditions, including a gastro-intestinal infection. Dr Khalil al-Daqran, who is treating her, indicated that Siwar's immune deficiency complicates her recovery. The situation in Gaza's hospitals is critical, with many facilities overwhelmed and lacking essential resources to treat the rising number of patients, particularly children.

Key takeaways

• Siwar Ashour was evacuated to Jordan for treatment and returned to Gaza on 3 December 2023.
• She is currently suffering from a gastro-intestinal infection and is being treated at al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital.
• Gaza’s healthcare system is under significant strain, with hospitals experiencing a threefold increase in child admissions.

Timeline: how we got here

A brief timeline of key events leading to Siwar's current situation:

• March 2023: Siwar's health issues become public, leading to a medical evacuation initiative.
• June 2023: Siwar is evacuated to Jordan for treatment under a medical programme.
• October 2023: A ceasefire is declared in Gaza, allowing for increased humanitarian aid.
• 3 December 2023: Siwar is repatriated to Gaza after completing her treatment in Jordan.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Since her return, Siwar has experienced health complications, leading to her readmission to hospital. Reports indicate she is suffering from a persistent gastro-intestinal infection, which is exacerbated by her immune system deficiency.

What was already established

Prior to her return, Siwar had been treated in Jordan for nutritional issues stemming from a lack of adequate food, compounded by the ongoing conflict and blockade affecting Gaza. The situation in hospitals has been dire, with many facilities severely damaged and unable to meet the healthcare needs of the population.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza directly impacts international perceptions and policies regarding aid and support. UK citizens may feel compelled to contribute to humanitarian efforts or advocate for policy changes aimed at addressing the needs of affected populations.

Businesses and jobs

UK-based organisations involved in humanitarian aid may see an increase in demand for support services and funding as public awareness of the situation grows. This could lead to new partnerships and initiatives aimed at providing relief.

Policy and regulation

The UK government may consider its stance on foreign aid and humanitarian assistance as the situation in Gaza evolves. Discussions around refugee support and healthcare access for Palestinians may become more prominent in policy debates.

Numbers that matter

• 45: The number of children, including Siwar, who were returned to Gaza after treatment in Jordan.
• 300: The estimated number of sick and wounded children evacuated from Gaza to Jordan since March 2023.
• 3: The reported increase in child patient admissions to hospitals in Gaza since the ceasefire.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Neocate: A hypoallergenic formula designed for infants and toddlers with specific dietary needs.
• Gastro-intestinal infection: An infection affecting the stomach and intestines, often leading to symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhoea.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

The immediate focus for Siwar’s family will be to stabilise her health and secure the necessary nutritional supplies that are critically short in Gaza.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Efforts to facilitate further medical evacuations for children in need are likely to continue, with ongoing negotiations involving Jordan and international health organisations.

Signals to watch

• Monitor the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza and any changes in blockade policies by Israel.
• Watch for updates on Siwar's health and the status of other children requiring medical attention.
• Track international responses and discussions regarding the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

Practical guidance

Do

• Stay informed about the humanitarian crisis and support reputable charities working in Gaza.
• Engage with local representatives to advocate for policy changes regarding aid and refugee support.

Don’t

• Don’t dismiss the ongoing humanitarian needs of affected populations as temporary or isolated.
• Don’t ignore calls for action from humanitarian organisations and affected families.

Checklist

• Ensure you are subscribed to reputable news sources for updates on the situation.
• Research and support humanitarian organisations active in Gaza.
• Attend local meetings or discussions regarding refugee and aid policies.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dynamic, with ongoing conflict and evolving policies affecting aid deliveries. The exact number of children needing medical attention continues to fluctuate, and significant uncertainty exists regarding future evacuations and access to healthcare. Additionally, geopolitical factors may influence the flow of humanitarian aid and the overall stability of the region.

Bottom line

Siwar Ashour's return to Gaza underlines the severe healthcare challenges faced by children in the territory. While international attention has increased, the situation remains dire, and immediate action is necessary to improve the living conditions and health outcomes for the people of Gaza.

FAQs

What is the current health status of Siwar Ashour?

Siwar Ashour is currently being treated for a gastro-intestinal infection at al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Gaza. Her health remains critical due to an immune deficiency and complications following her return.

Why was Siwar returned to Gaza after her treatment in Jordan?

Siwar was returned to Gaza as part of a medical evacuation programme, which stipulates that patients must return after completing treatment to allow for the transfer of more patients from Gaza.

What challenges does Gaza's healthcare system face?

Gaza's healthcare system is experiencing severe shortages of medicines, medical supplies, and facilities, compounded by the ongoing conflict and recent increases in patient admissions.