Gaza Records 4,000 Miscarriages in First Half of 2026 Amid Health Crisis

A medical official in the Gaza Strip has voiced alarm over a dramatic increase in miscarriages, with 4,000 cases recorded in the first half of 2026. Bassam Zaqout, director of medical relief in Gaza, attributed the surge to the dire living conditions within the Palestinian enclave.

“

Pregnant women in Gaza were forced to travel on unpaved roads in overcrowded and unsafe transportation, sleep on the ground, and had limited hot water and hygiene supplies, all while battling fear of Israeli bombing.

Pregnant women face significant hardships, including traveling on unpaved roads in overcrowded and unsafe transportation, sleeping on the ground, and having limited access to hot water and hygiene supplies. These conditions are compounded by the constant fear of Israeli bombing.

The spread of skin diseases and unsanitary conditions in refugee camps further contribute to the rising miscarriage rates. Zaqout highlighted that the health sector is in a state of emergency due to severe shortages of medicines, equipment, and medical supplies, exacerbated by restrictions on essential resources.

“

The health crisis was exacerbated by severe shortages of medicines, equipment, and medical supplies, with the health sector now operating in a state of emergency due to restrictions and blockades on the entry of essential resources, diagnostic equipment, and laboratory reagents.

Zaqout also reported widespread outbreaks of infectious diseases and viral infections, particularly among displaced populations. Thousands of chickenpox cases are recorded weekly, alongside increases in respiratory infections and diarrhea due to contaminated water. The reduced flow of humanitarian aid and hygiene supplies has worsened conditions in overcrowded displacement camps.

“

Thousands of cases of chickenpox are being recorded every week, along with an increase in respiratory infections and watery diarrhea caused by contaminated water.