Two-Year-Old Girl Burns in Lebanon Conflict
Two-year-old Ivana Skayki is recovering in the burns unit of Geitaoui Hospital after suffering third-degree burns on nearly half her body when an Israeli missile struck near her home in southern Lebanon.
Her father, Mohammed Skayki, recalls the terrifying moment when the explosion rocked their house in Deir Qanoun En Nahr on September 23, the day Israel initiated a major bombardment of the region.
“We were ready to evacuate, our belongings packed,” Mohammed said. “The strike was just 10 meters from our front door. My daughters were playing on the balcony, and Ivana was covered in missile dust when I picked her up.”
While Ivana’s older sister, Rahaf, suffered less severe injuries and has been discharged to stay with relatives, Ivana remains hospitalized, her head and arms wrapped in bandages.
Dr. Ziad Sleiman, a plastic surgeon at the hospital, noted that despite her injuries, Ivana displays remarkable bravery and resilience.
The healthcare system in Lebanon is under immense strain due to the conflict, with the WHO reporting 23 attacks on medical facilities this month alone, resulting in numerous fatalities.
The Lebanese health ministry has condemned these assaults as violations of international law.
With ongoing bombardments and displacement affecting many families, Dr. Sleiman expressed concern for the future: “Every war ends with many losers. We must remain strong for our patients, but it is difficult.”
As Ivana prepares for discharge in about ten days, her family faces uncertainty, unable to return home due to continued violence in southern Lebanon.
