UN Women’s ‘Rapid Assessment and Humanitarian Response in the Occupied Palestinian Territory’ estimates that nearly 493,000 women and girls have been displaced from their homes in Gaza due to the ongoing conflict. Tragically, the violence has also led to a growing number of widows, with approximately 900 women becoming the heads of households following the death of their male partners.
UN Women has been analyzing the differentiated impact of the conflict on women, men, boys, and girls to provide appropriate responses to their needs. Without a ceasefire, these numbers are likely to increase. UN Women Deputy Executive Director, Sarah Hendriks, has called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire and unimpeded access to critical supplies for the survival of women and girls in Gaza.
The situation is dire, with a high level of gender-based discrimination, impacting women’s safety, food security, and access to resources. Women and girls are seeking refuge in overcrowded shelters with inadequate provisions. UN Women remains present on the ground and emphasizes the importance of supporting women-led organizations in the humanitarian response.