Armenia Treats Three Children Evacuated From Gaza, Performs Heart Surgery on Two

Three children evacuated from Gaza have undergone medical treatment in Armenia, including heart surgery for two patients, as the country prepares to potentially receive more children affected by the war.

The children, who suffer from serious health conditions, arrived in Armenia on September 30 with three caregivers. Their transfer followed months of work involving Armenia's Ministry of Health, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, and the World Health Organization (WHO).

The Ministry of Health confirmed the details to Armenian investigative outlet Hetq, reporting that two children are being prepared for discharge while a third remains hospitalized following a second operation.

Two of the children were born with heart defects and underwent surgery at Nork-Marash Medical Center in Yerevan. One is recovering well enough to leave the hospital, while the other required an additional procedure and remains under medical supervision.

The third child, receiving treatment at Arabkir Medical Center, previously underwent liver and kidney transplants in 2014 and 2015. The patient has several serious conditions, including a rare metabolic disorder that can damage the kidneys and other organs, chronic kidney disease, liver failure and severe hearing loss.

Doctors also treated an ear infection and a bacterial infection affecting the child's left knee. Health officials said the patient's condition is now stable, with both transplanted organs functioning satisfactorily.

The medical evacuations are part of a broader Armenian government initiative first announced on January 29, 2026, during a United Nations Security Council discussion.

In April, the WHO sent Armenian authorities medical records for 40 children from Gaza to assess whether they could receive treatment in Armenia. Of 11 patients initially considered, seven were selected based on the medical care available in the country.

Three children were brought to Armenia in the first transfer.

The government allocated 16.7 million Armenian drams (approximately $44,000) from its reserve fund to help cover the operation. The money has been used for travel, visas, accommodation, essential supplies and medical expenses, including surgery.

The Health Ministry said it would release a full accounting of the costs once treatment is completed.

Armenia initially planned to accept up to 10 children from Gaza. Health officials say they intend to continue the program and are considering arrangements to bring another group of patients to the country.

However, further evacuations will depend on security conditions, transportation, funding and other humanitarian challenges. No date has been set for the next transfer.

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