Palestinian Embassy Highlights UN Report on Gaza's Strain on Women

The Embassy of the State of Palestine in India has brought attention to a UN Women report titled 'The Cost of War in Gaza on Women and Girls,' which documents a severe humanitarian crisis impacting Palestinian women due to ongoing conflict. The Embassy calls the report evidence of the dire situation facing these individuals.

According to the report, women and children have been severely affected by the violence, with over 70% of casualties being women and children. Additionally, nearly a million women and girls have been repeatedly displaced under dangerous conditions, lacking proper shelter and essential services. The collapsing healthcare system in Gaza exacerbates these issues, jeopardizing the well-being of about 50,000 pregnant women and resulting in dangerous births without adequate care.

The report further highlights acute food insecurity affecting over 90% of the population, severely impacting women and children. The crisis has led to severe reductions in clean water and sanitation access while creating psychological distress among residents, many of whom are now sole caregivers following family losses. The Embassy stresses the need for urgent international intervention to prevent long-term societal consequences.

The UN report, prepared as an 'advocacy brief,' draws on recent gender-focused analyses to illustrate the dangers faced by women and girls since October 2023, comprising attacks and violence patterns. The insights call for gender-responsive action to safeguard civilians and mitigate escalating risks facing women in Gaza.