THE theme for this year’s International Women’s Day centres around inclusivity, a concept that remains aspirational in many parts of the world, particularly in conflict zones like Palestine. Throughout history, women have banded together in solidarity to champion each other’s rights, yet the plight of Palestinian women often goes unnoticed and unacknowledged within mainstream feminist discourse.
As we commemorate International Women’s Day, it’s crucial to shine a spotlight on the women of Gaza who bear the brunt of ongoing conflict and endure unimaginable hardships. The Health Ministry of Gaza has rightly criticized the international community’s silence, emphasizing the dire conditions faced by Palestinian women. This year has been particularly devastating, marked by a surge in aggression and atrocities perpetrated against Palestinian women by Israeli forces. From arbitrary detentions to systematic violence, Palestinian women face a daily struggle for survival.
The statistics paint a grim picture: since the commencement of Israel’s onslaught on Gaza, over 9,000 deaths have been reported, with an average of 63 women per day losing their lives. These are not just numbers; behind each statistic lies a tragic tale of loss and suffering. Over 23,000 women have been injured, their lives forever altered by the violence and conflict. Thousands more are missing, leaving families anguished and communities shattered. The displacement of over half a million women further compounds the trauma, forcing them to rebuild their lives amidst the rubble of war.
Amidst this devastation, the silence of Western feminists is deafening. How can we claim to champion inclusivity and equality while turning a blind eye to the egregious violations of Palestinian women’s rights? Pregnant women in Gaza lack access to essential healthcare services, forced to navigate childbirth under dire circumstances. The closure of medical facilities exacerbates their plight, leaving many to give birth without proper care or support. The scarcity of resources further compounds the crisis, with pregnant women facing heightened risks of complications and stillbirths.
Beyond healthcare, Palestinian women grapple with food and water scarcity, a direct consequence of the ongoing siege imposed on Gaza. The siege not only deprives them of basic necessities but also subjects them to arbitrary detentions and unspeakable violence at the hands of Israeli forces. Their fundamental rights and dignity are routinely violated, yet their suffering remains largely invisible to the world.
The hypocrisy of Western feminism is laid bare when we witness the stark contrast between passionate activism on certain issues and apathy towards the plight of Palestinian women. This selective outrage reflects a broader pattern of double standards, where feminist solidarity is often contingent upon geopolitical agendas. However, Palestinian women’s resilience and unwavering spirit stand as a testament to their enduring strength in the face of adversity.
As feminists, it is our moral imperative to speak out against the injustices faced by Palestinian women and demand accountability for their suffering. We must call for an urgent humanitarian ceasefire and ensure unhindered access to essential resources and healthcare services. True inclusivity requires us to stand in solidarity with the women of Gaza and amplify their voices on the global stage.
In conclusion, as we celebrate International Women’s Day, let us not forget the women of Palestine who continue to endure unspeakable hardships. Their resilience and determination in the face of adversity serve as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality and human rights worldwide.
—The writer is a position holder in the IR and a contributing columnist. ([email protected])
