Tiny survivor of Gaza airstrike finds mother again

Baby Bissan, born prematurely due to an Israeli airstrike in Gaza, was evacuated to Egypt in an incubator. Seven of the 29 preterm infants died in Egypt, but Bissan survived and was later reunited with her mother in Gaza in March 2026. Upon reunion, Bissan did not initially recognize her mother, a common challenge for children separated from their parents.

Returning to Gaza meant Bissan had to acclimate to a war zone where airstrikes continued despite a ceasefire. Her mother, Sundus al-Kurd, noted Bissan's fear of explosions and her gradual adjustment to their surroundings. The experience underscores the trauma faced by children exposed to continuous conflict.

Another infant, Ibrahim, was evacuated to Egypt, but his mother, Israa Badr, died of sorrow the following month. Ibrahim is now reunited with his father but struggles to connect, highlighting the deep emotional toll the conflict takes on families. Mental health experts note that rebuilding parental bonds after prolonged separation requires significant time and effort.

Both Bissan and Ibrahim were deprived of maternal care, including milk and embrace, crucial for emotional development. Rebuilding these connections is ongoing, with evenings proving more challenging as children seek comfort during nighttime explosions. However, Sundus reported that Bissan is gradually recognizing her as her true mother.