Tragedy Strikes: Gaza Doctor's Family Devastated by Israeli Airstrike

The article delves into the heartbreaking story of Dr. Alaa al-Najjar, who has endured unimaginable loss while navigating an ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza amidst escalating violence.

Hamdi al-Najjar, a Palestinian doctor, is reported to be in critical condition following an Israeli airstrike that tragically claimed the lives of nine out of his ten children. The strike occurred on Friday while Dr. Alaa al-Najjar was working at Nasser hospital in Khan Younis, where her husband was rushed for emergency treatment. Sadly, the couple's only surviving child, their 11-year-old son Adam, also sustained injuries but is reportedly recovering well.

Dr. Milena Angelova-Chee, who works in the same hospital, confirmed that Hamdi's injuries are severe, involving his brain, lungs, right arm, and kidney. She indicated that the hospital staff is doing everything possible to save him but emphasized the overwhelming suffering faced by the entire family. The couple's nine children, aged between a few months to 12 years old, were victims of this tragic incident, with photographs shared highlighting the heartbreaking aftermath.

The Israeli military acknowledged the strike, stating it targeted individuals believed to be involved in military activities near Khan Younis. However, they insisted that airstrikes were necessary as the region is deemed a "dangerous war zone". In the wake of the bombing, thousands of Palestinians have been told to evacuate the area, leading many to respond they have nowhere safe to go. Reports suggest that approximately 81% of the territory is under evacuation orders or classified as "no-go" zones.

As the violence continues, over 3,700 Palestinians have reportedly lost their lives since Israel resumed its military operations in March. Aid organizations report increasing difficulties in providing necessary assistance to Gaza, with severe shortages of food and medical supplies becoming increasingly dire.

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has escalated into a critical concern, particularly for the medical personnel at hospitals who are struggling with inadequate supplies. Dr. Angelova-Chee noted that staff are working under perilous conditions, with some struggling to find basic food supplies for sustenance.

As international calls for cessation of violence reverberate, Dr. Alaa’s tragedy stands as a heart-wrenching example of the relentless suffering in this ongoing conflict, epitomizing the impact on countless families caught in the crossfire.