UN Reports Alarming Fatalities Among Women and Children in Gaza
Recent airstrikes by the Israeli military in Gaza have been highlighted in a United Nations report, underscoring significant civilian casualties, particularly among vulnerable populations.
Recent Strikes and Casualties
A spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Ravina Shamdasani, provided insights into the situation in Gaza during a press briefing. According to Shamdasani, between March 18 and April 9, 2025, there were 224 recorded incidents of Israeli airstrikes targeting residential areas, including shelters for internally displaced persons.
Out of the 36 attacks that were substantiated, the fatalities solely included women and children, raising serious concerns about the humanitarian impact of these military operations.
Statements from Advocacy Groups
The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) responded strongly to the report, asserting that the systematic killing of women and children reflects the “genocidal intent” of the Israeli government. They called for the international community to recognize and act against the crisis faced by Palestinians.
Conditions in Gaza
Shamdasani further elaborated on Israel’s evacuation orders, which have effectively displaced many Palestinians into restricted areas lacking access to necessary services such as water, food, and safe shelter. These areas are also under periodic attack.
Since the resumption of airstrikes on March 18—which ended a brief cease-fire—local health officials have reported a staggering death toll of over 50,000 in Gaza, with the Palestinian Ministry of Health citing at least 1,540 of those fatalities occurring post-resumption of hostilities.
Effects of the Blockade
The ongoing blockade has severely restricted the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza. A UNICEF representative issued warnings earlier this month about the dire situation for children, stating they are surviving without essential resources.
Shamdasani noted that the blockade, which has now lasted over six weeks, has been exacerbated by Israeli officials linking the entry of humanitarian aid to the release of hostages, which raises concerns about potential collective punishment and violations of international law.
International Response
The UN expressed deep concern regarding the conditions imposed on the Palestinian population, suggesting these conditions may threaten their very existence in Gaza. As the conflict escalates, calls for intervention and accountability continue from human rights organizations and affected communities.
