As part of the intense program of the Cuban delegation to the 69th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW), Zonya Rivero Lopez, Second Secretary of the Federation of Cuban Women (FMC), participated this Thursday in the United Nations virtual event entitled "The Destruction of the Health System in Palestine: A Lifeline in Peril for Women and Girls," and delivered a powerful speech on the critical situation of Palestinian women and girls in the current conflict.
In her speech, Rivero Lopez expressed deep concern about the ongoing violence and suffering of the Palestinian people, especially women and children.
"March should be a month of celebration for women around the world. But it is not possible to celebrate fully while our Palestinian sisters continue to face the cruelest side of genocide and apartheid every day," she said.
The Cuban representative denounced the war crimes and crimes against humanity committed against the Palestinian people, highlighting the devastating impact on women and children.
"In the last 17 months, the Israeli genocide against the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip has caused the death of more than 48,500 people, including more than 12,200 women and 17,800 children, and more than 112,000 wounded. In the Gaza Strip, 70% of the victims are children and women," the Cuban official said.
She also condemned the obstruction of humanitarian aid, including during the holy month of Ramadan, and rejected Israel's ban on UNRWA activities. "UNRWA's work is essential to ensure that humanitarian aid reaches those in desperate need, including Palestinian women and girls," she stressed.
The Second Secretary of the Federation of Cuban Women also denounced the destruction of homes, schools and civilian infrastructure, as well as the deprivation of essential services such as water, food and electricity. She highlighted the devastating impact on the health system, with hospitals and health centers damaged and medical personnel attacked. "1,068 male and female health workers have lost their lives in these months," he lamented.
She concluded her speech by reaffirming Cuba's unwavering support for the Palestinian cause and expressing solidarity with Palestinian women. "To our Palestinian sisters, we send our firm message of unwavering solidarity and deep admiration for their dignified resistance. Count on our unwavering support for their just cause," he declared.
Permanent Mission of Cuba to the United Nations