26 November 2007: Israel continues to delay treatment of two Gazan toddlers with cystic fibrosis

Two-and-a-half year old Muhammad a-Shanti and his brother Mustafa, who is sixteen months old, have cystic fibrosis. They live in the Gaza Strip, where the health system is unable to treat their serious illness. As a result, they must go to Hadassah Hospital , in Jerusalem , once a month for treatment. Prior to each visit, their parents have to submit a request for an entry permit for one of them and for the toddlers. Now and in the past, Israel has taken its time in issuing the permits. The delays have severely increased in the past six months.

Muhammad and Mustafa a-Shanti. Photo: Muhammad Sabah , B'Tselem.

Since Hamas took control of the Gaza Strip in June 2007, Israel has almost completely prohibited Gazans to enter Israel or go abroad for medical treatment. The last time the children were treated at Hadassah was in September. Since then, Israel has not permitted them to enter its territory, and the toddlers' condition has deteriorated.