War in Gaza has driven mothers to marry off young daughters

The war in Gaza and the mass displacement of Palestinians have helped fuel an increase in marriages of young girls.

That's according to official data and experts.

Some mothers see marriage as a source of protection and financial support in the harsh conditions of sprawling tent camps.

Girls who marry early can face sexual assault and physical abuse from their husbands and in-laws.

Many also become pregnant too young, putting them at risk of miscarriage or worse.

Divorce rates are also high among early marriages, meaning some return home with babies and no support.

The Associated Press spoke to six girls in Gaza who got married between 13 and 16 and their parents.

They spoke on condition they not be identified by their full names because of the deep sensitivity of the issue.