In the dark and desolate landscape of the El-Arish airfield on the Egyptian Sinai Peninsula, a glimmer of hope emerges as a Boeing 777 from the Emirati airline Etihad stands ready to transport the most vulnerable victims of the Gaza conflict to Abu Dhabi. This scene, though somber, represents a lifeline for those caught in one of the world’s most protracted and devastating conflicts.
The Plight of the Injured
Among the passengers are Ahmad al-Nimr, a 17-year-old with severe injuries, and his mother, Najla Akram. Their journey to safety is emblematic of the many harrowing tales of survival from Gaza. Ahmad was injured when a bomb struck his school, a place his family believed to be safe. The war has left his family displaced, living in dire conditions in Rafah near the Egyptian border, where essentials like food and electricity are scarce.
The UAE’s mission is clear: to evacuate and treat 1,000 wounded children and an equal number of adults with cancer from Gaza. Since October, they have successfully transported 425 patients, with plans to evacuate many more. This initiative is a beacon of hope, albeit a small one in the face of overwhelming need. The stark reality is that the UAE’s aid program can only help a fraction of those suffering, likened to a grim lottery where chance determines who gets to escape.
The Evacuation Process
The evacuation flights, while lifesaving, are fraught with challenges. The border between Gaza and Egypt is heavily militarized, with refugees in makeshift camps unable to leave unless they possess foreign passports or are on evacuation lists. The injured, including many children, endure a cold and bleak wait in the El-Arish hangar, a stark reminder of the hardships they face.
As the plane prepares for departure, the medical team, including Dr. Yakub Alhammadi from Abu Dhabi, faces the daunting task of caring for the severely injured. The aircraft is equipped with beds to accommodate those in critical condition, ensuring they receive the necessary medical attention during the flight.
Not Just a Selfless Mission
While the UAE’s efforts are commendable, they are not entirely altruistic. The country has normalized relations with Israel, a move seen by many Arabs as a betrayal. By providing aid to Palestinians, the UAE aims to demonstrate its commitment to humanitarian principles despite its geopolitical stance.
However, the mission’s limitations are evident. Only children accompanied by close relatives can be evacuated, leaving many orphans of the war stranded. The UAE also operates a field hospital and a seawater desalination plant in Gaza, further showcasing its aid efforts.
A New Beginning
Upon arrival in Abu Dhabi, the evacuees are transported to hospitals for further treatment. For many, this marks their first flight and a tentative step towards normalcy. Ahmad, now in better spirits, communicates via WhatsApp, expressing a desire for simple pleasures like an iPhone, a symbol of his yearning for a return to everyday life.
This humanitarian mission underscores the dire situation in Gaza and the urgent need for global intervention. The UAE’s initiative, while significant, highlights the broader necessity for sustained and comprehensive aid to alleviate the suffering in Gaza.