PRESS RELEASE BY THE OFFICE OF THE PRIME MINISTER The Prime Minister visits Ibrahim Mahir Wasfi Wishah, a young patient from Gaza receiving medical treatment in Malta

Prime Minister Robert Abela today visited 15-year-old Ibrahim Mahir Wasfi Wishah, a youth from Gaza who is receiving medical treatment in Malta and making steady progress through therapy provided by professionals at St Luke’s Hospital. During the visit, Dr Abela encouraged Ibrahim to continue his rehabilitation and to look forward to resuming life as independently as possible.

Ibrahim was brought to Malta last April, together with other injured persons from Gaza, under an initiative coordinated through the European Union Civil Protection Mechanism with the participation of Malta’s Civil Protection Department. Upon arrival, he began immediate treatment at Mater Dei Hospital for serious orthopaedic injuries to his right leg caused by an explosion while he was in Gaza. In July, he was referred to physiotherapy and assessed by the Orthotics and Prosthetics Unit (OPU), where a multidisciplinary team, including a prosthetist, orthotist, and therapists, developed a tailored rehabilitation plan aimed at helping him regain mobility and independence.

The Prime Minister expressed his satisfaction that Malta’s humanitarian assistance is making a tangible difference, as seen in Ibrahim’s recovery and that of others who have found care in our country after being caught in the conflict. Together with the Minister for Health and Active Ageing Jo Etienne Abela, thanked the dedicated medical professionals supporting Ibrahim and all those receiving medical treatment in Malta. 

Malta was among the first EU member states to welcome patients from Gaza for treatment in local hospitals following the outbreak of the war. Prime Minister Abela reaffirmed Malta’s commitment to continue providing humanitarian assistance while also working tirelessly in favour of peace. Palestinian Ambassador Fadi Hanania was also present during the visit.

Photo: OPM