"Have sex... get bread," the absurd demands on women in Gaza in exchange for food, a report that shocks humanity
Gaza Crisis 2025: Many victims reported being lured with promises of jobs or relief supplies. In some cases, vehicles bearing UN symbols were used.
Gaza Crisis 2025: Gaza has been engulfed in the flames of war and devastation for the past two years, revealing to the world the darkest truths of humanity. While the women here struggle with hunger, thirst, and helplessness, they are also facing another inhumane crisis: sexual exploitation. In the name of aid and relief, local men and some aid workers are demanding sexual favors from starving women. Women are facing humiliating deals for a single meal and clean water.
Reports from agencies and human rights organizations indicate that women are either lured into marriage or directly forced into physical relations.
Women are forced to suffer silently
In Gaza's conservative culture, it's extremely difficult to discuss such incidents openly, so most women are forced to endure the pain silently. However, some victims have shared their experiences, which are not only shocking but also raise questions about human values.
Humanitarian crisis in Gaza
Due to ongoing war and displacement, the people of Gaza are deprived of basic services. Lack of water, food, and medicine has left people completely dependent on relief organizations. This dependence is exploited and women are becoming victims of exploitation.
Women’s ordeal
Several women told the AP news agency that they were told bluntly, "I want to touch you" or "I want to marry you." Some said their phone numbers were taken by aid workers during relief registration and then they began receiving obscene calls late at night.
Reaction of international organizations
UNRWA and other relief agencies claim they have a zero-tolerance policy against sexual exploitation. However, survivors say that even after filing complaints, no action is taken and cases are often suppressed in the name of demanding evidence.
Psychologists' reports
Female psychologists working in Gaza have revealed that they have encountered numerous cases where vulnerable women were asked for sexual favors. Some agreed under duress, while others refused. Many cases resulted in pregnancy.
History is also a witness
This isn't the first time such reports have emerged from conflict zones. Previous incidents of women being exploited during emergencies have been reported in South Sudan, Haiti, and Congo. Experts agree that women are at their most vulnerable during times of crisis.
Deals in the name of help
Many victims reported being lured with promises of jobs or relief supplies, in some cases involving people using vehicles bearing UN symbols. They were then subjected to late-night calls and demands for sexual favors.
PC:India Daily