Reports of gender-based violence in Gaza surged in the first half of 2026, according to new findings from UNFPA, the UN’s sexual and reproductive health agency. Reported cases rose 60% in that period.

The findings, based on data from 10 organizations and interviews with 230 displaced women in Gaza City and Khan Younis, also show early and forced marriage cases up 123% from the first to the second quarter of 2026. The girls affected are aged 12 to 17.

“The trends are shocking,” said Nestor Owomuhangi, UNFPA’s representative for Palestine. “Everything is eroded… there is no system,” he said, describing the collapse of protection services. The reports describe rape victims married to their attackers, and one case of a 14-year-old married in exchange for two bags of flour.

UNFPA points to overcrowded shelters, repeated displacement, food insecurity, and school closures as drivers. Israel rejects allegations that it arbitrarily blocks aid, saying screening is needed to prevent Hamas from diverting supplies. The findings were published around Sept. 23-24, 2026.