In a devastating incident, an Israeli shell struck Gaza’s largest fertility clinic in December, causing catastrophic damage to stored embryos and reproductive materials. The explosion ruptured five liquid nitrogen tanks within the embryology unit of Gaza City’s Al Basma IVF centre, leading to the destruction of over 4,000 embryos along with 1,000 specimens of sperm and unfertilized eggs, reports Reuters.
This single attack exemplifies the profound and unseen consequences of Israel’s ongoing assault on Gaza, impacting the lives of 2.3 million Palestinians. The embryos housed in these tanks represented the last hope for many Palestinian couples struggling with infertility.
Bahaeldeen Ghalayini, the clinic’s founder, expressed profound grief, highlighting the immense loss of potential lives for numerous parents. He noted that for at least half of the affected couples, this destruction signifies the end of their chances of conceiving.
The Israeli military, upon inquiry by Reuters, stated that they were investigating the incident. Israel refutes allegations of deliberately targeting civilian infrastructure and accuses Gaza fighters of utilizing medical facilities for combat purposes, a claim denied by Hamas.
Seba Jaafarawi’s journey through fertility treatments reflects the emotional turmoil faced by many. After enduring painful procedures and failed attempts at natural conception, Jaafarawi and her husband turned to IVF, a widely available option in Gaza, despite economic challenges.
Gaza, characterized by large families and a high fertility rate, witnesses considerable demand for IVF services, with couples often resorting to selling possessions to cover treatment costs.
The Reuters report said the destruction of the Al Basma centre, which housed the majority of Gaza’s frozen embryos, dealt a severe blow to reproductive healthcare in the region. The attack occurred just as Jaafarawi achieved her first successful pregnancy through IVF, only to face the chaos of conflict.
As Israeli assaults intensified, concerns arose regarding the liquid nitrogen levels critical for preserving embryos. The siege on Gaza disrupted essential supplies, making it perilous for medical staff like Mohammed Ajjour to maintain necessary conditions for embryo storage.
Jaafarawi’s subsequent miscarriage amidst the turmoil underscores the tragic consequences of war on personal health and reproductive aspirations. The closure of the clinic following further attacks prevented many from accessing vital reproductive services.
The Al Basma centre, once a beacon of hope for infertility treatments, now lies in ruins, with shattered masonry and remnants of destroyed embryos visible amidst the rubble. The loss of 5,000 embryos in a single strike represents a profound human tragedy.
The plight of individuals like Jaafarawi underscores the harrowing experiences of those navigating fertility treatments amid conflict. The enduring pain and trauma of such losses are deeply felt by those who have undergone similar challenges.
Despite the desire to retrieve and attempt IVF again, subsequent attacks rendered such efforts impossible. Ghalayini lamented the destruction, questioning whether the clinic was deliberately targeted.
The aftermath of this tragic event underscores the urgent need to protect medical facilities and civilian infrastructure during times of conflict, to safeguard the fundamental rights and aspirations of affected populations.