Geneva, A group of United Nations experts today issued a strong plea for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, emphasizing the urgent need to protect the rights and futures of women and girls in the region. This call comes in response to the escalating violence and deteriorating conditions in the occupied Palestinian territory and Israel.
According to Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, the experts expressed deep concern over the impact of the conflict on women and girls. They emphasized the disproportionate consequences borne by them due to the ongoing conflict. The experts highlighted the immediate need for humanitarian intervention in Gaza, along with the cessation of forced displacement, to shield women and girls in the besieged area from further harm.
Since October 7, 2023, Israel’s intensive bombardment of Gaza has resulted in the deaths of nearly 12,000 women and children. Additionally, 2,784 women have been left widowed, taking on the role of heads of households. Critical infrastructure, including water and sanitation facilities, has been severely damaged, affecting access to essential services for over 1.1 million women and girls.
The experts raised concerns about the heightened risks faced by vulnerable groups, including pregnant women, children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities. They warned of the increased likelihood of communicable diseases, malnutrition, and death as Gaza’s civilian infrastructure collapses.
The situation for women and girls in Gaza is becoming increasingly bleak, with disruptions in education, the collapse of healthcare systems, massive housing destruction, overcrowding in shelters, and a general breakdown of physical and social structures. The experts noted that these conditions severely impact the well-being and future prospects of girls, particularly those orphaned or displaced due to the conflict.
In their statement, the experts also highlighted the plight of women and girls in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem. They reported increased discrimination, harassment, sexual assault, and attacks by Israeli authorities and settlers since October 7. Restrictions on movement and the risk of violence have severely constrained the lives and livelihoods of these women and girls.
The experts urged Israel, as the occupying power, to prevent and protect women and girls from arbitrary detention, discrimination, and violence. They called for accountability and justice for victims of sexual violence and other crimes. Concerns were also raised about the hostage-taking of Israeli women and girls by Hamas, with calls for their immediate and safe release.
The experts condemned the use of sexual violence as a weapon of war, urging for investigations into allegations of such violence by Hamas and other armed groups against women and girls in Israel. They emphasized that no international crime justifies another and urged Israel to cease its bombardment of Gaza and ensure justice and reparations for all victims.