Born too soon: Premature babies fight for survival in Gaza

What the report says

Al Jazeera reported on July 25, 2026, that neonatal staff in central Gaza are seeing more premature and underweight babies as the war, displacement, food shortages and weakened medical services place pregnant women and newborns at severe risk. The article centers on Noor Salem, 30, whose son Yazan Al-Khalidi was born in the eighth month of pregnancy with breathing problems and was moved to an incubator at Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir el-Balah.

The report says Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital is the only facility with a neonatal unit serving central Gaza, leaving doctors and nurses under heavy pressure. Dr Afnan Abu Hasaballah, an obstetrician-gynecologist working with UNRWA and Al-Awda Health Hospital in Nuseirat, told the outlet that repeated displacement, fear, lack of food and clean water, and reduced prenatal care are contributing to premature births and low birthweights. Al Jazeera also cited UNICEF warnings that one in five newborns in Gaza needs intensive neonatal or thermal care.

The medical challenges extend beyond delivery. The article describes shortages of incubators, ventilators, medicines, electricity, fuel and basic supplies, which can heighten the danger of breathing complications, infections, low body temperature and other problems for premature infants. Mothers are often separated from babies immediately after birth, adding emotional strain during an already unstable period.

Al Jazeera also reported that families face difficulties after discharge because diapers, formula, clean water, blankets and sterilization supplies are scarce or costly. Qutoof Al-Khair Foundation in Nuseirat is providing vitamins, supplements, medicines and supplies, but its head, Akram Abu Jiab, said needs continue to exceed available support.