Mother in Gaza longs for triplets after premature birth
- Hanan al-Bayouk had to leave her triplets in intensive care after their premature birth due to Israeli movement restrictions.
- The ongoing conflict has made it impossible for her to reunite with them, and communication is limited to video calls.
- The triplets are developing well, but the separation from their mother highlights the emotional toll of the war on families.
A 26-year-old mother, Hanan al-Bayouk, is separated from her triplets, Najwa, Nour, and Najmah, who were born prematurely and are currently in intensive care at Al-Makassed hospital. After giving birth, she had to return to Gaza due to Israeli restrictions on movement, leaving her babies behind. The situation worsened when war broke out, preventing her from reuniting with them. Communication is limited to video calls, which are often disrupted by the ongoing conflict. The triplets are reportedly developing well, with good mental and physical health, as confirmed by Dr. Hatem Khammash, the director of neonatal intensive care at the hospital. The hospital environment is supportive, with toys and colorful decorations, contrasting sharply with the dire conditions faced by many children in Gaza due to the ongoing blockade and military actions. Since the conflict escalated on October 7, thousands of children have been affected, with reports of severe malnutrition and casualties. The U.N. children's agency has highlighted the tragic impact of the war on children, emphasizing the urgent need for humanitarian assistance. The situation remains critical, with international ceasefire negotiations showing little progress. Despite the challenges, hospital staff are making efforts to keep the triplets connected to their mother by encouraging them to recognize her image during video calls. This emotional support is vital for both the mother and her children as they navigate the uncertainties of their circumstances.