Nearly 50,000 women and girls in Gaza have been killed or suffered severe injuries since October 2023, according to a new estimate from UN Women. The figure includes more than 38,000 killed and about 11,700 whose injuries are so serious they may face lifelong disabilities.
One in 21 affected
The estimate means roughly one in every 21 women and girls in Gaza has been killed or severely injured during the war. Most of the casualties occurred during the first two years, but deaths have continued since the ceasefire took effect. UN Women counted 277 women and girls killed in Gaza since October 2025.
Displacement remains widespread. Almost every woman and girl is still displaced, with many living in tents or among the remains of their homes. The crisis has also reshaped household responsibilities: female-headed households have doubled, and women now lead about one in four households.
Support services under strain
Women’s organizations report that funding cuts have sharply limited their ability to meet needs. In a survey of 14 organizations, 13 said they could no longer provide the support required. All reported increases in gender-based violence, poverty and psychological distress since 2025; 13 also described a rise in child marriage.
UN Women has called for the ceasefire to be implemented, international law to be respected and accountability to be pursued. The figures underline that the impact on women and girls extends beyond deaths: displacement, disability, violence and the loss of essential support are compounding the emergency.
The estimates describe a population facing extraordinary harm while basic services and safe housing remain scarce. Humanitarian groups say sustained funding and protection are necessary to support survivors and families.
