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Prince of Wales visits Gazan children undergoing NHS treatment
The Prince of Wales has privately met with critically ill children from Gaza currently receiving specialized medical care in the UK, Kensington Palace confirmed on Sunday. The visit underscores the prince's growing focus on humanitarian leadership amid the ongoing conflict in the region.
Humanitarian mission brings 50 children to UK hospitals
The children arrived as part of a UK government initiative launched in September, which facilitated medical evacuations from Gaza to British hospitals. According to the Department of Health and Social Care, 50 young patients-accompanied by immediate family members-are now receiving treatment in what officials described as "safe and welcoming" environments.
Authorities have not disclosed the identities of the evacuees, citing privacy concerns. The first group of children and their families left Gaza in late September, following coordination between the UK government and international partners.
Prince William's response to the children's resilience
A Kensington Palace spokesperson stated that Prince William was "moved by the courage shown by the children and their families" during the visit. The prince reportedly sought to "offer a moment of comfort to these young people who have endured experiences no child should ever face."
He also expressed "heartfelt gratitude" to the NHS teams providing care, praising their "exceptional" work amid what the palace called a "profoundly difficult time." The visit aligns with the prince's recent public emphasis on "more empathetic leadership," particularly in humanitarian crises.
The Prince wished to offer a moment of comfort to these young people who have endured experiences no child should ever face.
Kensington Palace spokesperson
Broader context: Conflict and humanitarian efforts
The evacuations follow the escalation of hostilities in Gaza after Hamas-led militants attacked Israel on 7 October 2023, killing 1,200 people and abducting 251 others. Since then, Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry reports at least 70,100 deaths in the territory. A brief ceasefire was declared on 10 October, though fighting has since resumed.
Prince William's engagement with the issue extends beyond this visit. In October, he unveiled a global memorial for humanitarian aid workers and delivered a speech on humanitarian values. In a recent documentary interview, he told presenter Eugene Levy that "change is on my agenda-change for good," though he clarified he seeks "not overly radical change, but change that needs to happen."
Government and royal statements on the initiative
A UK government spokesperson reiterated the country's commitment to the mission, stating: "The government worked with partners to carry out medical evacuations from Gaza to the UK over the autumn. Fifty patients and their immediate family members are now receiving care in surroundings that are safe and welcoming."
The palace's remarks echoed this sentiment, highlighting the "dedication" of NHS staff and the "professionalism and humanity" demonstrated in supporting the families.
