State of the World from NPR cover image

State of the World from NPR

A Mother and Newborn from Gaza Reunited After Months Apart

Oct 11, 2024
Raneem Hijazi is a resilient mother from Gaza who survived an airstrike while eight months pregnant, tragically losing eight family members including her young son. She shares her gripping journey of survival and the heart-wrenching months spent separated from her newborn daughter, born amidst chaos. Raneem reflects on the contrast between grief and joy during their reunion, illuminating the profound realities of motherhood against the backdrop of conflict. Her story is one of hope, resilience, and the enduring bond between mother and child.
08:58

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Raneem Hijazi's ordeal highlights the profound resilience of motherhood, as she endured separation from her newborn while recovering from trauma.
  • The reunion with her daughter, though joyous, emphasizes the emotional complexities of loss and adjustment after the devastating impact of conflict.

Deep dives

A Mother's Resilience Amidst Tragedy

Raneem Hijazi's journey as a mother took a heartbreaking turn when she was separated from her newborn daughter, Miriam, after being injured in an airstrike in Gaza. Having lost her son, Azuz, and enduring numerous surgeries, Hijazi faced the emotional turmoil of watching her daughter grow through video calls while recovering in a hospital in Doha. The hope of eventually meeting Miriam kept her going during those lonely months, showcasing her immense resilience in the face of overwhelming grief. Despite serious physical challenges, including needing a prosthetic arm, Hijazi's determination to connect with her daughter highlights the power of motherhood even under the most dire circumstances.

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