A group of Palestinian children who are ill or injured are being evacuated from Gaza to receive treatment from the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) in the coming days. These children are currently receiving medical care in another regional country before being transferred to the UK for further treatment. Due to the severe deterioration of Gaza’s healthcare system, it has become extremely challenging for children with chronic conditions to access necessary medical care. According to UN charity Unicef, over 50,000 children have been either killed or injured since October 7, 2023.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper stated that efforts are underway to evacuate injured children from Gaza and bring them to the UK for assistance. The UK government is also facilitating the evacuation of students who have secured placements at British universities. This process involves diplomatic coordination to ensure the safe passage of individuals through multiple countries to reach the UK.
A small number of children have already been brought to the UK through the Project Pure Hope charity, established by volunteer medical professionals. However, official approval from the Israeli government is required for further evacuations to take place. This marks the first instance where Palestinian children are being transported to the UK for NHS treatment. Family members will accompany each child if needed, and biometric information will be recorded in a third country.
Although the exact number of children in the initial group remains undisclosed, previous estimates suggest it could range between 30 to 50 individuals. Opposition leader Keir Starmer had previously committed to assisting more sick and injured Palestinian children, emphasizing public outrage over the situation in Gaza. The government recently announced a program to provide free medical care in the UK for eligible children.
A Foreign Office source confirmed collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) to facilitate the transfer of critically ill and injured children to the UK for specialized NHS treatment. The first group of patients is expected to arrive in the UK in the near future.