Overview
- Since Israel's March 2 blockade, over half of essential maternal and neonatal medicines are depleted, with critical medical equipment barred from entering Gaza.
- Up to 20% of Gaza's 55,000 pregnant women are malnourished, and half face high-risk pregnancies, according to the United Nations Population Fund.
- Premature births and neonatal complications have surged, with at least 20% of newborns in February and March suffering from malnutrition or other health issues.
- Only nine of Gaza's 14 maternal hospitals remain partially operational, forcing medical staff to prioritize critical cases as resources dwindle.
- Doctors report a doubling of miscarriage rates compared to 2023, with rising maternal and infant deaths linked to hunger, unsanitary conditions, and lack of care.