Statement by the Executive Director on the announcement of a ceasefire in Gaza

UNFPA welcomes the announcement today of a deal to secure a ceasefire in Gaza. This is a vitally important breakthrough for the women, girls and their families in Gaza who have experienced the horrors of 15 months of war and devastation, and the hostages in Gaza and their families in Israel who have suffered so much.

Tens of thousands of women and girls have been killed and injured in Gaza. The destruction of homes, hospitals and health facilities has left them without access to critical care and basic services. Women have been forced to give birth without medical help amid bombs and destruction. Nine people out of ten in Gaza cannot fulfil their daily food needs.

The ceasefire deal offers a glimmer of hope. Now, peace must be sustained, international law respected, and all parties must facilitate immediate, unhindered and scaled-up humanitarian access to enable UNFPA and its partners to provide critical assistance to all civilians in need across Gaza. 

UNFPA stands ready to support the rebuilding of maternal health and protection services in Gaza.

Women and girls desperately need and deserve peace, security, stability and a chance at a better future.