Tunisia Welcomes 10-Year-Old Khalil for Medical Care

When Khalil Islam Abou Dagga stepped off the plane in Tunis with his grandparents, a team of doctors, diplomats, and volunteers stood ready to help him heal.

The ten-year-old Palestinian boy arrived Sunday morning at Tunis-Carthage International Airport for treatment at the Mohamed Kassab Institute of Orthopaedics. Tunisia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Health, and the Tunisian Red Crescent coordinated his arrival following a directive from President Kais Saied.

Khalil traveled from Cairo with his grandfather and grandmother, who will stay by his side throughout his recovery. Upon landing, representatives from multiple government agencies and Red Crescent volunteers greeted the family with warmth and efficiency.

The medical team began necessary examinations the same day, wasting no time in starting Khalil's path to recovery. The Red Crescent has arranged housing for his grandparents near the hospital so the family can stay together during treatment.

The Ripple Effect

Tunisia's response extends far beyond one child. Since the war in Gaza began in October 2023, the country has welcomed 173 injured Palestinians and 50 families for medical treatment.

Every person receives full coverage for accommodation, meals, healthcare, and transportation at no cost to their families. The Tunisian Red Crescent has intensified efforts through support campaigns, humanitarian aid shipments, and organizing air bridges to send medical and food supplies directly to Gaza.

Amor Takrouni, Secretary-General of the Tunisian Red Crescent, emphasized the organization's commitment to ensuring wounded Palestinians receive care under the best possible conditions. Public health institutions across Tunisia have opened their doors to provide specialized treatment that many patients couldn't access elsewhere.

The collaboration between government ministries and humanitarian organizations shows what coordinated compassion can accomplish. Beya Ben Abdelbaki from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs highlighted how seamlessly different agencies worked together to help Khalil.

His grandfather expressed deep gratitude to Tunisian authorities and medical staff, noting that Tunisia's support for Palestinians has remained steadfast over the years. "This initiative is not unusual for Tunisia," he told reporters, recognizing the country's long history of standing with the Palestinian people.

For young Khalil, this journey represents hope and healing after unimaginable hardship. In Tunisia, he's found not just medical expertise but a nation willing to open its heart and resources to help a child walk toward a brighter future.