Israel-Gaza Conflict: Families Desperately Search for Missing Loved Ones

Moein Abu Rezk is the only remaining family member of his nephew, Omar, who is in critical condition at Al-Aqsa Martyrs hospital in Gaza. Omar lost his left hand and sustained multiple injuries, including a dislocated jaw, as a result of an Israeli air strike that killed 35 members of their family. Moein has chosen not to inform Omar about the deaths of their family members, fearing that it may worsen his condition. Moein hopes that Omar can be evacuated from Gaza through Egypt, thanks to the efforts of the United Arab Emirates government and the Emirates Red Crescent. However, the ongoing fighting and heavy bombardment make it uncertain whether an ambulance will be able to transport Omar to the Egyptian border. Israeli ground forces have already divided Gaza and fully encircled Gaza City. The main evacuation route for people in the central area is along the Mediterranean coast. Many Palestinians sought refuge in the central area after being ordered to evacuate their homes two months ago. The war, which began after a cross-border attack by Hamas gunmen, has resulted in over 18,200 deaths and more than 49,000 injuries. The Israeli military claims to be targeting terrorists and their infrastructure, with over 22,000 strikes conducted since the start of the conflict. Moein recounts that Omar and their family were visiting their grandmother's house when it was bombed without any warning. The hospital where Omar is being treated is struggling to provide adequate care due to a shortage of equipment and resources. Doctors have been forced to treat Omar in a corridor, and pain medication is scarce, requiring them to use humor to alleviate his pain. Moein hopes that Omar can be transported to the Rafah border crossing and receive specialized treatment. Another survivor, Lena Shakora, describes the harrowing conditions she and her family are enduring, including overcrowded living conditions, lack of food, and contaminated water and food due to the destruction of essential infrastructure. The UN has been unable to distribute aid in the southern city of Rafah due to the hostilities and limitations on movement.