Israeli military offensive in Gaza has led to the discovery of mass graves containing bodies with signs of torture, execution and even being buried alive. Human Rights experts have condemned the actions, highlighting the disproportionate impact on civilians, particularly women and girls.
The situation is dire in Gaza, with over 1.7 million internally displaced people and 1.1 million facing catastrophic levels of food insecurity. Women and girls are facing forced disappearances and other forms of violence attributed to Israeli forces. The experts criticize the Israeli Government for not conducting an independent investigation into accusations of sexual assault and violence against women and girls.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women in Gaza are also suffering due to the destruction of crucial health facilities by Israeli forces. Conditions are so severe that 300 percent more spontaneous abortions have occurred, and 95 percent of pregnant and breastfeeding women are facing serious food poverty. Additionally, about 690,000 women and girls lack privacy and dignity in managing their menstrual cycles.
The destruction of homes and daily life in Gaza has disproportionately affected women and girls, with many facing unimaginable risks. The experts call on Israel to cease hostilities and for all States to immediately halt arms exports to prevent further harm to innocent civilians, particularly women and children. They urge the international community to take action to address the human rights violations occurring in Gaza.