According to a new report by Human Rights Watch (HRW), Israel’s 15-month war on Gaza and the severe restrictions on humanitarian aid flow, along with attacks on health facilities and healthcare workers, have created a “life-threatening danger” for pregnant women and babies.
Despite the ceasefire, the situation for women giving birth in Gaza is unlikely to improve, as Israeli legislation limiting humanitarian relief to the territory is set to take effect this week.
The report highlighted overcrowded hospitals in Gaza, with women being rushed out to make room for war casualties and newborn care being severely impacted. The lack of incubators has led to multiple babies being put in one, resulting in high mortality rates.
Moreover, several babies have died due to exposure to freezing temperatures.
HRW concluded in its 56-page report that Israel, as the occupying power in Gaza, has violated the rights of pregnant women and girls, jeopardizing their access to dignified care during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period.
The report also highlighted two Israeli legislative pieces that will further harm maternal and newborn health by limiting UNRWA’s operations in Gaza.
Medical facilities in Gaza are facing unsanitary and overcrowded conditions, shortages of essential supplies, and attacks on medical workers, making it challenging to provide care to victims of attacks and address other health issues, according to the report.
HRW interviewed pregnant women, medical workers, and international staff to understand the impact of the war on access to basic care during pregnancy and birth.
The war has led to a significant displacement of Gaza’s residents, making it difficult for pregnant women to access health services safely. Access to postnatal care for mothers and newborns is almost nonexistent, the report noted.
Israel’s actions in Gaza have previously been condemned for causing food insecurity and denying clean water. Pregnant women have suffered from lack of access to food and water, impacting their health and fetal development.
HRW emphasized the need for urgent action to ensure the healthcare needs of pregnant women, newborns, and others are met in Gaza.
