Journey to Recovery: Malnourished Baby Siwar Evacuated from Gaza to Jordan

The story of baby Siwar, evicted from war-torn Gaza, captures the resilience of a family amid despair. Weighing just 3kg, she has been granted a chance for treatment in Jordan, reflecting both the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the ongoing efforts to support affected families.

In emotional scenes at the Jordanian border, six-month-old Siwar Ashour was evacuated from Gaza, her frail cries a testament to her resilience in the face of adversity. Born into conflict, Siwar weighs just 3kg (6.6lb) — half of what a child her age should weigh. Accompanied by her mother Najwa, 23, her blind father Saleh, and her grandmother Reem, they made their way across the border, marking a significant moment of relief for the family.

Najwa described her overwhelming sense of calm as they entered Jordan, stating, "It feels like there is a truce. We will spend our night without rockets and bombing with God's will.” As Siwar’s grandmother lifted her off the bus, she celebrated their safe arrival with a V sign, expressing her disbelief and happiness upon seeing King Abdullah's photo at the border.

Back in Gaza, Siwar’s health had been deteriorating due to malnutrition as access to vital milk formula was severely restricted amid the Israeli blockade. Najwa herself struggled with malnutrition, preventing her from breastfeeding. Despite efforts from Jordanian medical providers and private donors, the urgency for comprehensive healthcare became undeniable.

In a partnership between Jordan and the U.S. announced in February, provisions were made to bring 2,000 seriously ill children for treatment in Jordan. With Gaza’s medical infrastructure overwhelmed by incessant conflict, the program has seen 57 children, along with their family members, evacuated since March. Siwar was among the 16 children who were evacuated on Wednesday.

Upon arrival in Jordan, Siwar was immediately taken into a facility where her medical needs could be assessed, finding solace in a setting of peace and security compared to the chaos left behind. The emotional toll of the journey was palpable, as all families present had lived through trauma, forced to flee or face unbearable losses.

Najwa, now pregnant again, fell into a deep sleep during their transfer, while Siwar remained wide awake in her grandmother's comforting embrace. Other children accompanied them, including two boys battling cancer, each carrying the burden of their experiences in a place where war has disrupted life.

As Siwar's family looks ahead to her treatment in Amman, they will finally rest without the immediate fear of war, and with hope for their daughter’s recovery. This evacuation not only highlights the dire humanitarian challenges facing residents in Gaza but also emphasizes the urgent need for ongoing support for those affected by the conflict. Over the coming days, as Siwar receives the necessary medical attention, her family's journey serves as a poignant reminder of resilience amid suffering.