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Mar 31, 2026

Eight Evacuated Gaza Toddlers Return Home After Two Years, Highlighting a Rare Humanitarian Reunion Amid Ongoing Conflict

AI Summary
Eight toddlers who were evacuated as premature babies from al‑Shifa Hospital during the 2023 Israel‑Gaza war have been reunited with their families in Rafah after more than two years, offering a moment of hope amid continued violence that has claimed over 72,000 lives and sees daily Israeli strikes despite a declared ceasefire.

Eight former premature infants who were airlifted out of al‑Shifa Hospital in November 2023 have been brought back to Gaza, reuniting with their families in Rafah after a humanitarian mission lasting over two years.

The children were part of a cohort of at least 25 babies born prematurely who were rescued as Israeli forces stormed the Gaza City medical complex. After receiving critical treatment abroad, the eight toddlers returned accompanied by three relatives and two medical staff, according to the Palestine Red Crescent Society.

Hundreds of thousands gathered in Rafah for the emotional reunion. Since the war began in October 2023, the conflict has claimed more than 72,200 lives, including tens of thousands of women and children.

"Our feelings are indescribable. This is the most important moment in our lives," said Samer Lulu, father of Kinda Lulu, to Al Jazeera. He added that the joy is tempered by the harsh reality of an uncertain future for Gaza’s children.

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) warned that the war is reshaping family structures, leaving a growing number of children without parental care. Ulrike Julia, the IRC’s Child Protection Coordinator, emphasized that community‑based care is essential but cannot survive without sustained external assistance.

In 2023, the infants were first moved from al‑Shifa to southern Gaza and then evacuated to Egypt for life‑saving treatment. Inside Gaza’s hospitals, doctors faced severe shortages of antibiotics, IV solutions, and even food, supplies that were reportedly blocked by Israeli restrictions.

Ola Hijji, mother of toddler Sulaiman Hijji, recalled being forced into a caesarean section at eight months pregnant and losing contact with her child after he was transferred to al‑Shifa’s neonatal intensive care unit. "It’s a beautiful feeling to be reunited," she said.

Despite a declared ceasefire in October 2025, Israeli strikes continue near‑daily. The Gaza Health Ministry reported that recent attacks killed over 700 Palestinians and injured many more, including five casualties in a single day of airstrikes across Jabalia and Khan Younis.

These reunions underscore the resilience of Gaza’s families while highlighting the urgent need for sustained humanitarian support and a durable path to peace.