Gaza: The Ministry of Social Development in Gaza says the number of widows in the territory has risen to more than 50,000 since the start of the genocide in 2023, describing the increase as an unprecedented humanitarian and social crisis.

According to Qatar News Agency, ministry spokeswoman Aziza Al Kahlout spoke to QNA on the occasion of International Widows' Day, revealing that 28,224 women had been newly widowed during the Israeli occupation offensive. This adds to the 22,596 widows who were already registered with the ministry before the war.

The ministry has reported that Gaza Governorate accounts for the largest share of widows, followed by North Gaza. Together, these areas represent over 70 percent of cases requiring urgent humanitarian and social support.

Al Kahlout indicated that women aged between 18 and 45 make up nearly two-thirds of war widows, emphasizing the need for economic empowerment programs and employment opportunities. She also highlighted the necessity for special support for underage widows and elderly women, who face unique legal, social, and healthcare challenges.

The ministry is calling on the international community and humanitarian organizations to expand protection and assistance programs for widows and their families. This includes financial aid, psychological support, legal assistance, and vocational training.

Al Kahlout noted that the figures could rise further as hostilities continue and data collection remains incomplete in some areas of the territory.