Women, Adolescent Girls, and Children Suffer the Most in Gaza's Dire Humanitarian Crisis – UN Expresses Concern

Women, Adolescent Girls, and Children Suffer the Most in Gaza's Dire Humanitarian Crisis – UN Expresses Concern

Women and adolescent girls are suffering the most amid Gaza’s dire humanitarian crisis. They are facing a "triple burden," according to Laila Baker, Regional Director for the Arab States at the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).

In an interview with Al Jazeera from Cairo, Egypt, Laila Baker stated, “These women are battling their own health challenges because most hospitals and healthcare centers in Gaza are practically non-functional. The supply of medicines and medical equipment has stopped, putting them at serious health risks. At the same time, they carry the responsibility of caring for their families, which becomes even more important than their own well-being.”

She added that pregnant women are in extremely dangerous conditions. Reaching a healthcare facility safely has become a nightmare.

Laila said, “Even if we assume they manage to reach a clinic, will there be a trained doctor? Will there be necessary medication? Will they have a safe way to return home? And in such a catastrophic environment — with limited food, water, and shelter — will that newborn even survive?”

Despite the overwhelming adversity, Laila praised the mental resilience and courage of the women and adolescent girls in Gaza. “They have a profound sense of commitment. They are proud of their identity, their country, and their homeland. They are determined — they will not leave this land; they will continue to fight till the end,” she said.

UN officials have called for immediate international assistance and an urgent ceasefire to address the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza. They have emphasized the need to ensure emergency medical support, safe shelters, and food supply for women.

Human rights activists hope that the voices of Gaza’s women during this time of crisis will stir the conscience of the global community.