The unseen victims of Gaza's escalating conflict

In Gaza, amidst the escalating hostilities, a silent yet profound struggle is unfolding – one that primarily affects women and newborns. The United Nations agencies, including UNICEF and WHO, have raised alarms about the disproportionate burden borne by this vulnerable group, both in terms of casualties and the significant disruption to essential health services​​.

Health services in crisis: The plight of pregnant women

The war has led to the closure of crucial healthcare facilities, leaving pregnant women in dire straits.

An estimated 50,000 pregnant women in Gaza, with over 180 giving birth each day, face severe risks due to the lack of access to emergency obstetric services.

Compounded by the destruction of medical infrastructure, many are forced to give birth in less-than-ideal conditions, such as shelters, homes, or amidst rubble.

This precarious situation significantly increases the risk of infection and medical complications​​.

Escalating maternal and newborn mortality

The psychological impact of the conflict, coupled with inadequate healthcare, is causing a rise in stress-induced miscarriages, stillbirths, and premature births.

Prior to the escalation, malnutrition among pregnant women was already a concern, impacting both maternal and child survival.

As the crisis worsens, the risk of malnutrition and related diseases continues to rise, endangering the lives of mothers and their newborns.​ https://www.who.int/news/item/03-11-2023-women-and-newborns-bearing-the-brunt-of-the-conflict-in-gaza-un-agencies-warn​

The precarious situation of newborns

For newborns, especially those requiring neonatal and intensive care, the situation is critical.

With hospitals running low on fuel, the lives of approximately 130 premature babies relying on incubators and medical equipment are at risk.

Over half of Gaza's population now resides in UNRWA facilities under deplorable conditions, exacerbating issues like malnutrition, dehydration, and the spread of waterborne diseases.

Alarmingly, 4,600 displaced pregnant women and about 380 newborns in these facilities urgently require medical attention​.

The call for action: Aiding Gaza's most vulnerable

In the face of such adversity, the need for immediate and sustained humanitarian assistance cannot be overstated.

IISNA World Aid, alongside organisations like The Merciful Group, MATW and Al Ihsan Foundation and other Islamic charities, must intensify efforts to provide vital support to these vulnerable groups.

This includes not only addressing immediate health crises but also ensuring long-term care and rehabilitation.

Your role in their journey to recovery

By supporting IISNA World Aid's Medical Appeal, you can contribute to alleviating the suffering of Gaza's mothers and newborns.

Your involvement can make a significant difference in their lives, offering them hope and a chance for a safer, healthier future.

In conclusion, as the conflict in Gaza continues, the plight of its women and newborns remains a poignant reminder of the human cost of war. It is a call to action for all of us to stand in solidarity and support the most vulnerable in their time of need.