Team of international medics trapped at Gaza’s European Hospital safely evacuated

A team of 16 international healthcare workers stranded in Gaza’s European Hospital has finally been evacuated two weeks after Israel seized the Rafah crossing between Egypt and the enclave, trapping them on site.

A team of 16 international healthcare workers stranded in Gaza’s European Hospital has finally been evacuated two weeks after Israel seized the Rafah crossing between Egypt and the enclave, trapping them on site. The group includes Adam Hamawy – an American citizen and former combat surgeon – known for saving the life of US Senator Tammy Duckworth in Iraq 20 years ago. In a post on X, Duckworth said she was “beyond relieved that Dr. Hamawy – and his entire team – safely left Gaza today and that he will be able to see his family again soon.” Hamawy previously turned down an evacuation offer, refusing to leave his non-US colleagues behind, who weren’t afforded the option to leave earlier. “It was only US citizens who could leave. There were spots for 20 people, and there are 20 US citizens. No one else could go. It was that simple,” Hamawy told CNN. “It’s a basic doctor concept for me as a US former service member that you don’t leave your teammates behind. On leaving Gaza, Hamawy told CNN, “We are glad that we are out and that we all left together. Our hearts are with the people who still have to endure and cannot leave.”