"A Triumphant Escape: Gaza Baby Receives Vital Treatment in Jordan"

"In a heartwarming moment, baby Siwar's family crosses into Jordan, seeking refuge from the horrors of the Gaza conflict. Struggling with malnutrition, Siwar's evacuation symbolizes hope amidst despair as she is set to receive life-saving treatment."

The frail cry of six-month-old Siwar Ashour echoed as she was carried from a coach into the calm of Jordan, a stark contrast to the chaos of Gaza. Weighing just 3kg (6.6lb) — a fraction of her ideal weight — Siwar, born amidst conflict, is now on her way to get the care she desperately needs. Her mother, 23-year-old Najwa, felt a sense of peace upon crossing the border, saying, "It feels like there is a truce."

Accompanied by her blind father Saleh and grandmother Reem, Siwar’s journey was fueled by hope. Saleh expressed his concern, stating, "We want to make sure she is safe and cured." As Reem exited the bus, she raised her fingers in a victory sign, elated to reach Jordan, stating, "I made the sign of victory...for the sake of Siwar."

The family’s ordeal began months earlier when Siwar was diagnosed with severe malnutrition, caused by an inadequate supply of the special formula she needed. Her mother struggled to breastfeed, and despite help from Jordanian medical staff and private supporters, Siwar's health remained critical due to the ongoing Israeli blockade.

A deal made earlier this year allowed Jordan to accept 2000 seriously ill children for treatment in Amman, as Gaza's medical infrastructure crumbled under pressure. This Wednesday, Siwar was among the latest group evacuated, where, upon arrival, she was confronted with a bustling crowd of medical professionals and reporters, all eager to provide care.

As children received food and drinks in the air-conditioned hall, the exhaustion of families was evident. Many had endured physical and emotional trauma: separation from loved ones, long waits for medical aid, and witnessing the aftermath of conflict. Najwa shared her pain, recalling that she had not seen her husband for two months while searching for treatment for Siwar.

On the journey to Amman, Najwa, who is also pregnant, succumbed to fatigue. Meanwhile, Siwar remained alert in her grandmother’s arms, while other families aboard the ambulance also bore the weight of their struggles. After reaching Amman, Siwar was handed over to nurses, where she will receive medical evaluations and care unavailable in Gaza.

For Najwa, Saleh, and Reem, nights will now be free from fear, as hope for recovery shines bright for little Siwar, representing a poignant narrative of resilience amidst relentless adversity in the region.