On Wednesday, an important humanitarian initiative led Jordan to evacuate sixteen Palestinian children, including ten suffering from cancer, from Gaza amidst ongoing conflict. This initiative is part of the “Jordan Medical Corridor,” a program conceived by King Abdullah II and highlighted during a mid-February meeting with President Donald Trump. The aim is to facilitate medical assistance for child patients in Gaza while navigating the logistical challenges imposed by both the World Health Organization (WHO) and Israeli restrictions on movement.
Despite these hurdles, a total of 64 Palestinians were evacuated to Jordan, reflecting the urgency and breadth of this initiative. The youngest evacuee, a 5-month-old baby grappling with severe malnutrition, emphasizes the dire conditions faced by many in Gaza. Other patients include a 6-year-old with severe burns from explosive injuries and a 2-year-old battling blood cancer. Upon arrival in Amman, the evacuated children, with the exception of two who will be sent elsewhere, will receive free medical treatment and housing as they undergo care.
The overarching goal of the Jordanian plan is to evacuate a total of 2,000 children from Gaza, while also providing medical aid and establishing field hospitals for those who remain. The Jordanian source highlighted the difficulties in ensuring the safety of these vulnerable patients and their families during transportation, especially against the backdrop of continuing Israeli military operations in the area. The challenge is exacerbated by the risk associated with moving through conflict zones, raising concerns about the risks involved in each evacuation.
The recent evacuation occurred at the Kerem Shalom crossing in the southern Gaza Strip, showcasing a level of cooperation between Israel and Jordan despite ongoing security challenges. An Israeli official confirmed the successful evacuation, emphasizing the collaborative efforts behind these humanitarian missions. Earlier in the conflict, Jordan also employed C-130 aircraft to drop food supplies into Gaza, illustrating its commitment to alleviating the humanitarian situation.
More than 600 days into the war, conversations about a potential ceasefire continue among regional players, with the goal of alleviating the suffering of Palestinian civilians and securing the release of 55 hostages held by Hamas. King Abdullah II of Jordan has articulated strong opposition to the notion of forced displacement for Palestinians, underscoring the need for a humane approach to the crisis and advocating for the rights and safety of those affected.
In summary, the ongoing Jordanian initiative presents a lifeline for many children in Gaza, facing insurmountable challenges due to the war. While the evacuation of these young patients is a positive step, the broader context of conflict raises urgent questions about the future of those left behind and the humanitarian crises that continue to unfold. The situation remains complex, with both regional and international stakeholders engaged in difficult conversations to pave a path towards peace and recovery for the affected population.
