Statement by UNFPA Executive Director Dr. Natalia Kanem on the resumption of attacks on Gaza

UNFPA is shocked by the resumption of airstrikes across the Gaza Strip. Already a meaningful number of civilians have been killed. UN staff have also been caught up in the violence, with a staff member tragically killed in attacks this morning. As fighting resumes, the number of dead will soar higher. 
 
During the ceasefire, UNFPA and partners worked against immense odds to reinstate basic services for women and girls, delivering and equipping makeshift health centres, which have provided critical maternal health care to thousands of pregnant women. The resumption of hostilities and an aid blockade entering its third week, now threaten to erase even these small gains.
 
This is subjecting women and girls to yet another cycle of deprivation and suffering. A lack of electricity and fuel has disabled hospital operations, and life-saving maternal health medicines have run out, again - particularly dangerous for the one in two pregnant women in Gaza who face a high-risk pregnancy.  
 
Malnutrition is high among pregnant and breastfeeding women, leading to increased pregnancy complications. Folic acid, multivitamins, and other crucial supplements are on the verge of disappearing. In February, at least one in five newborns were born with complications, including low birth weight, requiring advanced medical care that is now increasingly unavailable. Portable incubators, ultrasound devices, and oxygen pumps, among other essential equipment, are now stalled at the border. 
 
International humanitarian law is clear: civilians must be protected. They must be assured access to the essentials needed to survive, including food, water, shelter, and healthcare. UNFPA strongly appeals for the ceasefire to be respected. All hostages must be released unconditionally. The unimpeded movement of humanitarian assistance must be established and basic services restored. 
 
Ultimately, women and girls need a permanent end to hostilities and a pathway to peace.