Rome:

A significant humanitarian initiative focused on the children of Gaza is set to commence, spearheaded by the Italian government in collaboration with Egyptian authorities and with the agreement of Israeli authorities. The initiative entails the transfer of approximately 100 children severely affected by the extensive bombings and conflict in Gaza to various Italian hospitals. Given the challenging, if not impossible, circumstances for their treatment in Gaza, this endeavor aims to provide them with the necessary medical care.

The children will cross the border into Egypt, and from there, they will be airlifted to Rome's Ciampino airport. Subsequently, they will be admitted to different Italian pediatric hospitals. The project overcame numerous challenges. At the time of this article's publication, the departure date for the first plane remains unknown. 

Throughout the planning, the Vicar of the Custody of the Holy Land, Father Ibrahim Faltas, played a pivotal role, utilizing his extensive network of relationships developed over decades of charitable pastoral work. Father Faltas, in a conversation with L'Osservatore Romano, said, "I have consistently supported and assisted families in Gaza, and they are aware of my strong ties with Italy. They approached me, asking, 'Can you do something to evacuate some injured or seriously ill children?' I promptly engaged with Italian government institutions, receiving immediate and enthusiastic approval. Subsequently, an intensive mediation process unfolded involving Israelis, Palestinians, and Egyptians."

Initially considering two groups of 50 children each, the decision eventually settled on three groups of 40, totaling 120 children. Some will be transported aboard the hospital ship 'Vulcano,' concluding its mission in Al-Arish. The departure date depends on reaching an agreement on the number of accompanying individuals. Simultaneously, efforts are underway to identify additional hospital facilities, including those in Puglia, San Marino, and the University of Perugia, which have offered their services. Father Faltas commended the commendable efforts of Italian defense and health institutions, emphasizing his role in leveraging relationships cultivated over the years in Gaza, Palestine, and Israel.

Bambino Gesù Hospital will oversee the initial reception and distribution to medical facilities. Other participating hospitals include Gaslini in Genoa, Meyer in Florence, and Rizzoli in Bologna.

Tiziano Onesti, President of Bambino Gesù, highlighted, "In such a dramatic international context, addressing situations of great suffering involving children is crucial. Welcoming these children with complex pathologies is not only a practical response for them and their families but also a symbol of peace and hope. Caring for children is synonymous with caring for the future, demonstrating that a better future is possible. Our commitment as a pediatric hospital aligns with Pope Francis's reminder of being a tangible manifestation of the Church's charity and mercy."