Gaza City, Gaza Strip – Sohair al-Bordani, a resident of the Nuseirat refugee camp, is navigating the complexities of life in a conflict-ridden environment. At just 30, she is striving to care for her four children amid the challenges posed by the ongoing war that erupted in 2023. While al-Bordani managed to survive the violence, her marriage of ten years did not withstand the immense stress brought on by the situation.
Al-Bordani’s marital challenges intensified as the conflict continued, with emotional strain affecting her relationship with her ex-husband. Attempting to seek a court-ordered divorce, she encountered significant obstacles due to the war’s devastation of Gaza’s civil infrastructure, particularly its legal system. With over 73,000 Palestinians experiencing loss of life due to the ongoing hostilities, the repercussions extend beyond physical safety, impacting the very fabric of familial and social structures.
Facing delays in her judicial process, al-Bordani opted for khulu, a form of divorce initiated by women, which requires relinquishing financial claims. Regrettably, she is returning her dowry and foregoing the financial aid she would typically receive. “I felt compelled to seek peace and a fresh start after enduring such trauma,” she shared.
Al-Bordani’s predicament is emblematic of a broader issue facing women in Gaza, who find themselves grappling with suspended legal proceedings against a backdrop of ongoing conflict and instability. The disruptions have left many unable to pursue their rights regarding separation, particularly concerning child custody and financial support.
According to Sheikh Hassan al-Jojo, head of the Supreme Council of Sharia Judiciary in Gaza, despite the challenges, more than 8,700 divorce cases were heard from October 2023 to May 2025. Courts have managed to resume near-full operations, continuously providing essential services amid the destruction of court facilities and staff shortages.
While courts strive to maintain their functionality, they are faced with significant resource constraints. Judicial institutions operate with minimal equipment, often hampered by power outages and a lack of essential supplies. Nonetheless, the commitment to delivering justice remains steadfast, as services such as marriage and divorce proceedings continue to be prioritized.
The implications of the war on family structures in Gaza are profound. Legal access delays have hindered women like al-Bordani from asserting their rights after separation. This contributes to escalating financial and psychological burdens, as many are left awaiting resolutions that should determine their futures.
In pursuit of clarity and stability, Suad al-Naami, another young woman of 22, chose khulu following just five months of marriage. With disagreements escalating, al-Naami recognized that a prompt resolution was preferable to prolonged stress in a tumultuous environment. “Ending disputes and starting anew was essential for my well-being,” she explained.
In a region striving for resilience, the stories of women like al-Bordani and al-Naami reflect the strength and determination inherent in the Palestinian community amidst adversity. Their choices illuminate the complexity of navigating personal rights within the multifaceted challenges of conflict, demonstrating their resolve to reclaim autonomy, peace, and hope for a brighter future.
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