The Resilience of Mothers in Gaza Amid Ongoing Conflict

Since the onset of the current conflict on October 7, 2023, Gaza has faced severe humanitarian challenges, particularly affecting pregnant women and newborns. The Israeli government's actions, described by some as an attempt at ethnic cleansing, have led to a catastrophic environment where basic necessities are scarce. Reports indicate that over 3,000 babies have been born in collapsing hospitals, with many facing health complications due to malnutrition and inadequate medical care.

Women like Tasneem, who was seven months pregnant when the bombs began to fall, have endured unimaginable hardships. She gave birth on December 25, 2023, in an overcrowded hospital lacking essential resources. The conditions were dire, with no food available for recovery and diapers nearly impossible to find. Similarly, Doaa experienced the emotional toll of displacement and fear during her pregnancy, culminating in the birth of her son Hossam in a chaotic hospital environment on October 28, 2024.

The World Health Organization reports that 10% of Gaza's population and up to 20% of pregnant women suffer from moderate to severe malnutrition. This has dire implications for maternal and infant health, as many mothers struggle to produce breast milk due to their own nutritional deficiencies. The lack of access to iron-rich foods and fresh produce exacerbates the situation, with many mothers relying on makeshift solutions for their infants, such as using plastic bags instead of diapers.

The ongoing conflict has led to a significant increase in neonatal mortality rates. Miscarriage rates have tripled, and stillbirths have surged beyond prewar levels. In the first half of 2025, the U.N. Population Fund reported that among 17,000 births, 20 newborns died within 24 hours, and 33% of babies were premature or underweight. These statistics reflect the grim reality of childbirth in Gaza, where mothers often share incubators and face the risk of infection due to destroyed sanitation systems.

Despite the overwhelming challenges, the act of giving birth in Gaza is seen by many as an act of resistance. Noor, who gave birth amid the chaos of explosions, exemplifies this resilience. Her daughter’s faint cries symbolized hope amidst despair. The determination of these mothers to nurture life, even in the face of death, showcases their unyielding spirit. Dana's mother, who gave birth in a tent, expressed gratitude for the support of relatives and neighbors, emphasizing the importance of community in their survival.

Various humanitarian organizations have raised alarms about the deteriorating conditions in Gaza. Médecins Sans Frontières has highlighted the severe malnutrition rates among pregnant and breastfeeding women, calling for urgent international assistance. The United Nations has also reported on the critical state of healthcare facilities, urging for immediate action to address the humanitarian crisis.

• “What have these children done to deserve being born in these conditions of genocide and famine?” — Anonymous, relative of a newborn in Gaza.

• “To be pregnant in Gaza today is to give life with death knocking at the door.” — Anonymous, reflecting on the experience of motherhood in conflict.

• “We had nothing but each other,” — Dana’s mother, on the support from family during her pregnancy.

The resilience of mothers in Gaza, who continue to bring new life into a world fraught with violence and scarcity, is a testament to the human spirit. Their stories highlight not only the immediate struggles they face but also the broader implications of the ongoing conflict on future generations. As the situation evolves, the need for international attention and humanitarian support remains critical.