UN Report Details 'Severe Escalation' of Gender-Based Violence in Gaza

A new United Nations report reveals a "severe escalation" in gender-based violence (GBV) in Gaza, with women and girls experiencing increased sexual violence, forced marriage, and exploitation due to the ongoing humanitarian crisis.

The UN Population Fund (UNFPA) reported a 27% rise in GBV in Gaza between April and June of the current year. The violence encompasses sexual assault, denial of essential resources, and domestic abuse.

Incidents of sexual violence, including rape and sexual assault, have become critical, accounting for 2.7% of reported GBV cases from April to June, an increase from 2.1% in the preceding quarter. This represents a 61% rise in absolute numbers.

Testimonies gathered from women in displacement camps in Gaza City and Khan Younis describe harrowing experiences. One account detailed a father marrying off his 14-year-old daughter for two bags of flour to feed his other children. Reports also indicate that survivors of sexual violence are often pressured into marrying their perpetrators, with celebrations sometimes occurring at schools where rape cases have been discovered.

Sexual violence against women with disabilities has also been highlighted, with one account of a disabled girl who became pregnant after being raped. Sexual exploitation in exchange for essential services is reportedly increasing, with women describing demands for sexual favors to secure medical treatment for their children or to obtain shelter.

Perpetrators of the denial of humanitarian aid are frequently identified as fathers, brothers, and in-laws. One account describes a woman being stabbed and humiliated by her father-in-law for seeking food, and then assaulted by her husband's brother in front of the entire camp.

Some women have reported being forced by their husbands to engage in sex work in exchange for money. Concerns have also been raised about the rise of drug dealing and sex services within camps.

Domestic violence, already a significant issue in Gaza, has worsened considerably with displacement forcing families into close living quarters, increasing instances of physical abuse. One woman reported her neighbor being subjected to severe sexual, physical, and emotional abuse by her husband, including torture for attempting to contact her family.

Older women are also victims, with displacement eroding traditional protections. An account describes an elderly mother being beaten by her son because diapers were too expensive and he was unemployed.

The increase in violence is linked to the humanitarian crisis and improved mechanisms for reporting. Data indicates that the majority of survivors are women aged 18-59, followed by adolescent girls and adult men.