Babies in Gaza: The truth behind the viral image

A photo is circulating on social networks showing two babies in an incubator in a hospital in Gaza. Surrounded by cables and medical equipment, the image is placed in a current context and gives the impression that it is a direct result of the recent conflict in the region. But this representation is misleading.

What is it actually about?

The photo in question was first published in 2017 and actually shows newborns at Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City. It was originally published by Middle East Monitor and shot by Ali Jadallah, a photographer from Anadolu Agency. The context of the image related to the conditions in Gaza's hospitals at the time.

Now this image is being incorrectly placed in a current context as it is being re-disseminated through posts on Facebook and X. These posts claim that hospitals in Gaza are struggling with a lack of oxygen and that babies are being born in dangerous conditions.

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Our rating of the picture from Gaza

Using an old image to depict a current situation is a classic example of misleading information dissemination. Although the image is authentic, its temporal and contextual placement is crucial. The hoax uses the emotional impact of the image to reinforce a particular narrative that does not reflect current reality.

Facts about the picture from Gaza with the babies

The origin of the image is clearly documented. It was taken on June 27, 2017 and shows the situation at Al-Shifa Hospital at the time.

The current situation in Gaza, particularly with regard to health care and conditions for newborns, should not be judged based on outdated images. The misinformation created by the re-distribution of the image does not contribute to the accurate representation of actual events and may lead to misunderstandings.

Questions and answers about the picture from Gaza:

Question 1: Is the photo of the babies in Gaza current?
Answer 1: No, the photo is not current. It is from 2017.

Question 2: Why is the old photo published now?
Answer 2: The photo is likely used to draw attention to the current challenges in Gaza's health system, but it does not represent the current situation.

Question 3: Was the photo taken in a hospital in Gaza?
Answer 3: Yes, the photo was taken at Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City.

Question 4: Who originally took the photo?
Answer 4: The photo was taken by Ali Jadallah, a photographer from Anadolu Agency.

Question 5: Why is it problematic to use old images in a new context?
Answer 5: Using old images in a new context can be misleading and give a false picture of the current situation, which can lead to misunderstandings and misinformation.

Conclusion on the picture from Gaza

The reused image from Gaza from 2017 showing babies in an incubator is authentic, but portraying it as a current event is misleading. It is important that images and information are presented in the correct context to avoid misinformation and ensure an accurate understanding of the current situation.

Source: FullFact

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