Surgeon exposes horror experienced by children in Gaza conflict

In recent times, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza has garnered international attention, with civilians bearing the brunt of the ongoing conflict. Dr. Feroze Sidhwa, a trauma surgeon based in Stockton, California, has visited Gaza twice to assist in treating patients in a war-torn environment. His account from the Gaza Strip reveals harrowing experiences while working in a makeshift hospital, where he witnessed innocent children suffering due to the violence. During a briefing to the United Nations Security Council in late May, Dr. Sidhwa expressed deep concern over the plight of children, emphasizing that many are living in despair and facing severe psychological distress. Dr. Sidhwa articulated his disappointment with the United States’ veto of a UN resolution demanding a cease-fire, suggesting that the decision not only endangers lives but perpetuates a cycle of violence affecting the most vulnerable populations—children. He noted that reports indicate nearly half of Gaza's children are suicidal, which underscores the severity of the psychological trauma inflicted by continuous violence. The horror witnessed firsthand by Dr. Sidhwa included instances of severe injuries among children, which left him shaken, stating that such sights are incomprehensible to those not accustomed to war. Both in Israel and abroad, a growing minority of individuals is calling for an end to the violence and for actions that protect civilians, particularly children. In Israel, there have been protests led by left-wing activists against the IDF's military operations that resumed following the breakdown of a ceasefire earlier this year. These activists highlight the suffering of Gazan civilians and aim to bring attention to their plight amidst the ongoing conflict. The situation is fraught with tension, as many regular Israeli citizens do not resonate with these movements, viewing them as less patriotic or supportive of national security. Overall, Dr. Sidhwa's experiences as a trauma surgeon serve as haunting reminders of the costs of conflict, particularly the vulnerabilities faced by children caught in the crossfire. He is committed to continuing his advocacy for peace and the protection of civilians, particularly the innocent children who bear the greatest burden in times of war. There is a widespread acknowledgment that this war has lasted far too long and has inflicted deep psychological scars on the population, threatening the future of an entire generation.