The Impact of Middle Eastern Conflicts on Women and Girls

The ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, particularly following the U.S. and Israeli military actions against Iran, have led to a significant humanitarian crisis that disproportionately affects women and girls. As of April 2026, approximately 1.6 million women and girls in Iran and 620,000 in Lebanon have been internally displaced, facing heightened risks of abuse, exploitation, and gender-based violence. The situation is exacerbated by existing gender inequalities and limited access to resources, as documented by U.N. Women.

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The renewed U.S. blockade in the Strait of Hormuz has severely disrupted humanitarian aid routes, compounding the crisis. With over 90% of shipping disrupted, critical supplies, including $24 million worth of health supplies and food, have been left stranded. The blockade has also driven oil prices up by at least 60%, further straining global inflation and impacting food security. Women, who often occupy lower-paid and informal sectors, are particularly vulnerable to these economic shocks.

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The conflict has intensified food insecurity, with over 24 million women and girls across Iraq, Lebanon, the Palestinian territories, Syria, and Yemen facing acute hunger. In Sudan, 54% of fertilizer, essential for food production, comes from the Gulf region, making female-headed households particularly susceptible to the crisis. Women and girls comprise nearly 60% of those experiencing extreme hunger, often eating last and least during shortages, a reflection of entrenched patriarchal structures.

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The bombardment of Iran has led to significant environmental harm, including pollution and water scarcity, which disproportionately affects women responsible for collecting water and managing family nutrition. The destruction of infrastructure, such as desalination plants, has left many without access to clean water, further complicating sanitation and hygiene needs, especially during menstruation.

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Critics argue that the international community's response has been inadequate, with humanitarian funding cuts exacerbating the crisis. The U.K. has notably reduced its bilateral aid to Africa by 56%, reflecting a broader trend of redirecting aid budgets toward military spending. Activists face challenges in documenting rights violations and delivering services, particularly in countries like Iran, where internet shutdowns hinder information access.

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To address these compounding crises, it is crucial to prioritize the needs of women and girls in humanitarian efforts. Proposed measures include negotiating safe passage for humanitarian goods through the Strait of Hormuz and investing in alternative aid pathways. A holistic approach that centers women's wellbeing and human security is essential for a sustainable resolution to the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.

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• “What Must Happen Now The war with Iran has further strained an already weakened aid system.” — Tom Fletcher, U.N. Humanitarian Relief Coordinator

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• “Failing to recognize how these dynamics specifically and disproportionately impacts women and girls risks further magnifying and entrenching harm—even if a lasting ceasefire is achieved.” — Anonymous Activist

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This comprehensive overview highlights the urgent need for a focused humanitarian response that addresses the unique challenges faced by women and girls in the context of ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.

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