Regional Committee of Midwives warns of cessation of life-saving interventions for women, children in Gaza

The International Confederation of Midwives in the Middle East on Monday warned of the effects of the Zionist aggression on the health of pregnant women and children in the Gaza Strip.

In a statement, the Confederation condemned the continued aggression against the Gaza Strip, which has left catastrophic humanitarian and health conditions, noting that the health system in Gaza has become threatened with collapse in light of the depletion of medicine stocks, the prevention of entry of fuel, and the repeated targeting of medical personnel.

The Confederation also warned of the cessation of health care services, life-saving interventions for women and children, and difficulty in accessing basic health care in hospitals and health facilities.

It stressed that this situation constitutes a humanitarian and health catastrophe that threatens thousands of pregnant women and children, noting that there are more than 50,000 pregnant women, including five thousand and 500 women expected to give birth soon, who are at risk due to the deteriorating health situation and the escalation of the Israeli bombing of Gaza.

The Confederation explained that the continuous bombing, lack of health services, and worsening levels of stress and anxiety among pregnant mothers will lead to increased risks of diseases and health complications, including premature births, congenital malformations of fetuses, and increased mortality rates.

It reiterated that the Zionist aggression against Gaza constitutes a blatant violation of human rights and international humanitarian law, calling for this aggression to be stopped immediately to protect women and children in the Gaza Strip.

The Confederation called on the international community and humanitarian organizations to intervene urgently to stop the aggression against Gaza and provide the necessary protection and health care for pregnant women and children.

It announced its readiness to send a health team of midwives, nurses, and volunteer health personnel from midwifery associations in the countries of the Middle East region, to participate and volunteer in serving women, newborns, children, and families.

The Confederation called on the international community to take immediate action to provide the necessary medical assistance to hospitals and health facilities inside and outside the Gaza Strip, ensure the provision of fuel necessary for their operation, and facilitate access to them for pregnant women, mothers, and children.