More than 38,000 women and girls were killed, and nearly 11,000 others were wounded in Gaza between October 2023, when the war began, and December 2025, UN Women said.

An analysis published by the organisation on Friday noted that “22,000 women and 16,000 girls were killed” during that period. It said this represents at least 47 women and girls killed daily.

“The actual number of casualties is likely higher, as many bodies remain trapped under rubble,” it said. “The collapse of health information systems has significantly constrained the documentation of deaths and injuries.”

It expressed concerns that women and girls have continued to bear the brunt of the “devastating” war even after the six months of ceasefire, with humanitarian needs remaining urgent.

“Despite the ceasefire announced in October 2025, reports indicate that killings of women and girls have persisted in recent months, underscoring that the threats to their lives remain ongoing,” said the organisation.

UN Women Regional Director for the Arab States Moez Doraid said that beyond the high death toll and its impact on women and girls, the war changed family structures, with many women now heading households.

“Many face increased economic hardship and heightened risks while carrying the full burden of caregiving and survival,” said Mr Doraid.

Mr Doraid called for adherence to the ceasefire and international law, as well as the protection of women and girls.

“We need to see the ceasefire in full effect, with full compliance with its terms, respect for international law, strengthened accountability, and the protection of women and girls alongside unimpeded humanitarian assistance at scale. 

“Women and girls must be at the centre of response and recovery and meaningful participation in peacebuilding and reconstruction,” said Mr Doraid.

UN Women added that it was partnering with women-led rights organisations in Gaza to provide funding and technical support.

The Gaza war is an escalation of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which began in October 2023 after Hamas attacked Israel, prompting retaliation by the Israeli military.

Reports said that more than 75,000 people, including Palestinians and Israelis, have been killed in the war, and thousands are missing.

The World Health Organisation had warned that malnutrition rates were rising in Gaza, adding that hunger could have a lasting impact on “an entire generation.” 

On November 17, 2025, the UN Security Council adopted a resolution for a Gaza peace plan proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump and a temporary international force in the enclave.

Resolution 2803 (2025) received 13 votes in favour and none against, with permanent members China and Russia abstaining.