UN Report: Women & Children as Main Victims in Israel-Hamas War

Women and Children are the Main Victims of the Israel-Hamas War, According to UN Report

A recent report released by the United Nations highlights that women and children are the primary victims of the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. The report reveals that since Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel, an estimated 16,000 people have lost their lives, with two expectant mothers losing their lives every hour.

The devastating consequences of this conflict have led to at least 3,000 women facing the possibility of becoming widows or single mothers, while approximately 10,000 children have been left fatherless. The situation has also resulted in significant population displacement, with nearly 1.9 million people, including one million women and girls, seeking refuge and safety.

Challenges Faced by Women and Girls in Gaza

The report draws attention to the immense challenges faced by women and girls in Gaza. They have been deprived of safety, healthcare, and shelter, and are now facing the dire consequences of famine and starvation. Shockingly, the Gaza Health Ministry reports that 70% of Palestinian fatalities in the conflict are women and children. The UN estimates that over 500,000 people in Gaza are currently suffering from hunger.

UN Women has received reports of shocking cases of sexual violence against women as a result of Hamas attacks. The organization strongly supports the demand for accountability, justice, and support for the victims. Despite the escalating hostilities, women-led and women’s rights organizations continue to prioritize urgent responses to the war in Gaza.

Urgent Need for Expanded Aid and Support

An analysis of emergency relief funds for Gaza conducted last year revealed that only 0.09% directly supported national or local women’s rights organizations. This highlights the urgent need for expanded aid and support for women and children who have been disproportionately affected by the conflict. Immediate and unrestricted international support is necessary to address the immediate needs of women and girls in Gaza.

The UN Women’s Executive Director, Shimaa Bahous, emphasizes the critical importance of addressing the immediate needs of women and girls in Gaza. She states, “We owe a debt to all Israeli and Palestinian women and girls. This is not their conflict, and they should not bear the cost.” The war has resulted in the deprivation of safety, healthcare services, and basic necessities for women and girls in Gaza, causing significant loss of hope and justice.

Pursuing Peace and Justice

In the pursuit of peace and justice amid the ongoing conflict, it is crucial to prioritize the voices and experiences of women and girls in Gaza. Immediate attention and action are required to prevent further suffering and loss of life. The UN Women’s Executive Director calls for unrestricted international support to address the immediate needs of women and girls in Gaza.

As the conflict continues, it is imperative to prioritize peace and justice and ensure that the voices and experiences of women and girls in Gaza are given the utmost priority. Immediate attention and action are necessary to prevent further suffering and loss of life.

Overall, the report sheds light on the devastating impact of the Israel-Hamas war on women and children, emphasizing the urgent need for international support and aid to address their immediate needs and restore hope and justice in Gaza.