Yazan’s health deteriorates amid deportation concerns in Spain

Yazan Tamimi, a severely ill child facing deportation, experienced a significant decline in health after interruptions in his healthcare services this summer. Advocates for the rights of disabled individuals have criticized systemic failures.

Yazan, aged twelve and suffering from Duchenne muscular dystrophy, requires assistance with all daily activities and relies on a wheelchair. His family had initially anticipated deportation to Spain in early July, but this was postponed without explanation.

Concerns grew around Yazan’s health after he was moved from the hospital to inadequate home conditions. His mother reported a lack of entertainment and support, stating that Yazan was confined to a corner of their home without proper access to his medical needs.

Yazan returned to the hospital after his condition worsened, leading to an urgent visit to a children’s emergency ward. Advocates noted that officials previously believed his case was in process, but they acknowledged that communication breakdowns within the healthcare system have hindered necessary support.

Klara Briem, a senior lawyer for the advocacy group, expressed the need for continuity in healthcare for Yazan and others in similar situations. She highlighted that keeping Yazan’s care consistent is essential to avoid worsening his condition during the waiting period for deportation, which could potentially exacerbate his already fragile health.

As preparations for Yazan’s deportation resume, his lawyer has criticized the lack of coordination among the child’s medical team and the urgency needed to assess and guarantee that all necessary medical equipment would be available to prevent endangering his health during transit.