In the midst of relentless airstrikes on Gaza, a story of both tragedy and resilience unfolded late Thursday, July 18th. Ola Adnan Harb al-Kurd, a 25-year-old Palestinian woman, was killed in an airstrike that struck her home in Nuseirat. Ola was nine months pregnant at the time of the attack.
The horrifying incident took place during a night of intense missile strikes that claimed the lives of over 24 people, including six members of the same family. Ola, despite sustaining critical injuries, managed to survive the initial attack. However, by the time she arrived at Al-Awda Hospital, she was, according to surgeon Akram Hussein, “almost dead.” Despite the medical team’s valiant efforts, they were unable to save Ola. However, an ultrasound revealed a strong heartbeat from the baby within her.
Facing a race against time, doctors immediately performed an emergency cesarean section, bringing the baby into the world. The newborn, still unnamed, was immediately placed in an incubator and transferred to Al-Aqsa Hospital in Deir el-Balah. While the baby is considered stable, Dr Khalil Dajran reported that the infant is experiencing a shortage of oxygen and remains in critical care.
Adding to the tragedy, Ola’s cousin, Majid al-Kurd, revealed that while her husband and a relative survived the strike, all other family members perished. Despite the overwhelming sorrow, Majid offered a glimmer of hope, stating that, “The baby is in good health based on what doctors said.”
Ola was one of three women and a child killed by an Israeli missile in the Nuseirat refugee camp. The ongoing war in Gaza has made childbirth an incredibly perilous endeavor. Pregnant women are constantly facing airstrikes, limited access to essential healthcare facilities, widespread food insecurity, poor sanitary conditions, and a severe shortage of water. Hospitals are struggling to cope with the influx of patients, resulting in an increase in pre-term deliveries and maternal complications, as reported by Doctors Without Borders.
This story, while heartbreaking, is a powerful reminder of the devastating impact of war and the incredible resilience of life. The survival of Ola’s baby, amidst such devastation, serves as a beacon of hope. However, this glimmer of hope is overshadowed by the immense suffering and loss faced by Palestinians every day.
