Since October 2023, Israel’s military actions in Gaza have resulted in the deaths of an average of 21.3 Palestinian women per day, with nearly 8,000 mothers among the casualties. The high number of deaths comes as the Israeli government continues its airstrikes on the Gaza Strip. The figures highlight the devastating toll on Palestinian women, especially mothers, and have sparked international concern about the scale of the violence. This ongoing crisis has raised alarm about potential violations of international law.
The Impact on Palestinian Mothers
According to Euro-Med Monitor, the systematic bombardment has left 12,400 Palestinian women dead, including 7,920 mothers. These deaths are a result of direct airstrikes, with many women killed alongside their children in homes, shelters, and displacement camps. Tragically, many of the victims are young mothers or pregnant women, raising significant concerns about the long-term demographic impact on Gaza.
Euro-Med Monitor’s representative emphasized that the scale of the violence represents not just a humanitarian crisis, but a direct threat to the future of the Palestinian population.
Targeting of Pregnant Women and Children
The deaths of pregnant women and young mothers are particularly alarming. In many cases, Israeli airstrikes have specifically targeted women in their homes or while seeking shelter. A recent report from the Euro-Med Monitor revealed the case of Naifa Sadiq Zaki Ali Awida, a 24-year-old mother who, along with her husband and two young daughters, was killed in an airstrike in Khan Yunis on May 11, 2025. This incident is part of a broader pattern of targeting families, particularly women and children.
Additionally, the situation worsens as over 60,000 pregnant women are currently facing severe conditions, with many suffering from malnutrition and inadequate medical care due to the ongoing blockade. The Palestinian Ministry of Health has reported that the situation is critical, with many women being unable to access necessary healthcare services.
A Systematic Pattern of Genocide?
Experts argue that Israel’s actions are consistent with the definition of genocide under international law, particularly Article 2(d) of the 1948 Genocide Convention. This article describes the “imposition of measures intended to prevent births within the group” as an act of genocide. According to the Euro-Med Monitor, the killing of women, particularly mothers of childbearing age, alongside the destruction of healthcare infrastructure, and the denial of medical supplies, fits the description of such measures.
Israel’s policies, including the restriction of medical supplies and food, have led to widespread suffering, with many women and children dying from preventable causes. The blockade, now in place for over a year, has further exacerbated the situation, leaving many Palestinians unable to escape the violence or access life-saving resources.
Testimonies from Gaza’s Displaced Mothers
Mothers in Gaza have shared their heart-wrenching stories of survival. A mother of four from Gaza City, who asked to remain anonymous for safety reasons, described the constant fear and uncertainty she faces every day. “We have been displaced more than 10 times and survived many bombings,” she said. “Every night, I fear for my children’s safety. I can’t even reassure them when they ask if we will be safe.”
The emotional and psychological toll on these mothers is profound. In addition to losing their children and spouses, many women in Gaza are also grappling with severe mental health challenges. Anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder are widespread, as women struggle to protect their families amid constant danger.
International Calls for Accountability
International organizations and human rights groups are calling for urgent action to address the ongoing violence in Gaza. They have emphasized the need for all nations to fulfill their legal obligations under international law and hold Israel accountable for its actions. The International Criminal Court (ICC) has been urged to issue arrest warrants for Israeli leaders involved in military actions that violate international law.
Diplomatic and economic sanctions are also being recommended as a means of pressuring Israel to cease its military operations. Experts argue that an arms embargo, coupled with the suspension of trade agreements and financial support, could help prevent further atrocities.
