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Baby Malak, Rescued from Gaza Airstrike, Dies

Infant, Born Prematurely, Succumbs to Injuries Due to Smoke Inhalation

Tragedy Strikes Family Amidst Escalating Violence in Gaza

WEB April 11 2024 500 AM PDT By Mo Abbas and Erin McLaughlin

Days old and desperately thin, Baby Malak didn't even have a name when she was taken to Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City. She had been born prematurely, her tiny body covered in soot and ash, the result of an Israeli airstrike that had destroyed her family's home.

Doctors worked tirelessly to save her, but the damage to her lungs was too severe. Baby Malak died on Saturday, becoming the latest victim of the escalating violence in the Gaza Strip.

Her death has sent shockwaves through the besieged enclave, where civilians have been bearing the brunt of the conflict. The Israeli military has launched a series of airstrikes in recent days, targeting Hamas positions but also killing innocent civilians.

Baby Malak's family is devastated by her loss. Her father, Mohammed Rouqa, said she was a "miracle baby" who had brought joy to their lives. "We had so many dreams for her," he said through tears. "But now she's gone."

Baby Malak's death is a reminder of the human toll of the conflict in Gaza. Civilians, especially children, are paying the ultimate price for a conflict that has no easy solutions.

Cbc