UN Report Reveals Disturbing Evidence of Sexual Violence During Hamas Attacks in Israel
In a shocking revelation, a recent UN report has found “reasonable grounds to believe” that sexual violence, including rape and gang rape, occurred during the Hamas attacks in Israel on October 7th. The report also states that there is “convincing information” that hostages were subjected to sexual violence. Led by Pramila Patten, the UN Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict, the team conducted a thorough investigation into the matter.
Multiple Locations Affected
According to the report, the sexual violence took place in at least three locations: the Nova music festival site and its surroundings, Road 232, and Kibbutz Re’im. These attacks occurred when Hamas gunmen infiltrated southern Israel, resulting in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people and the capture of 253 others.
Denial and Accumulating Evidence
Hamas has vehemently denied any involvement in sexual assaults during the attacks. However, reports of such violence have been steadily emerging since October 7th. The BBC has also obtained evidence corroborating these claims, including testimonies of rape, sexual violence, and mutilation of women. It is important to note that the following article contains graphic descriptions of these acts.
UN Findings and Ongoing Violence
The UN report states that there is “clear and convincing information” that sexual violence, including rape, sexualized torture, and cruel treatment, was committed against hostages. Furthermore, the report suggests that such violence may still be ongoing against those who remain in captivity. Despite efforts to encourage victims to come forward, the UN team was unable to interview any survivors.
Mission and Verification Process
The UN team, consisting of Ms. Patten and nine experts, visited Israel between January 29th and February 14th. Their mission was not investigative but aimed to gather and verify allegations. During their visit, they held 33 meetings with Israeli representatives and examined over 5,000 photographic images and 50 hours of video footage.
Unfounded Allegations and Limited Verification
While some allegations of rape and sexual violence were found to be unfounded, the report explains that limited imagery prevented the verification of other reports. One such case involved a pregnant woman whose womb was reportedly torn open and her fetus stabbed. The UN report also states that it could not establish a discernible pattern of genital mutilation.
Sexual Violence Against Palestinians
The report also highlights reports of sexual violence against Palestinians in Israeli custody, including unwanted touching of intimate areas and prolonged forced nudity. Although no instances of rape were reported, the conservative cultural norms within Palestinian society may have impeded the reporting of sexual assault.
Israel’s Response and Call for Action
Israel has welcomed the UN report’s recognition of Hamas’ sexual crimes. Lior Haiat, a spokesman for the Israeli foreign ministry, called for the immediate convening of the UN Security Council to designate Hamas as a terrorist organization and impose international sanctions on it. However, Mr. Haiat rejected the report’s claims of sexual violence against Palestinian men and women in detention settings, during house raids, and at checkpoints after October 7th.
Israel’s Opposition to Cooperation
Israel has previously rejected similar allegations made by independent UN experts, dismissing them as “despicable and unfounded.” Mr. Haiat also stated that Israel opposes the recommendation made in the report for the country to cooperate with the UN’s international Commission of Inquiry, which is investigating potential war crimes on all sides. He accused the inquiry of being hostile towards Israel.
Recalling the Ambassador and Criticizing the UN
In response to the report, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz has recalled the country’s ambassador to the UN for “consultations,” accusing the organization of attempting to silence the grave findings. Katz criticized UN Secretary-General António Guterres for not convening the Security Council to discuss the report’s findings and declare Hamas a terrorist organization. UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric refuted these claims, stating that the report was being presented publicly and that Guterres fully supported Ms. Patten’s work.
Conclusion
The UN report’s findings of sexual violence during the Hamas attacks in Israel have sent shockwaves through the international community. The evidence presented is both disturbing and deeply concerning. As the world grapples with the aftermath of this revelation, it is crucial that action is taken to address these heinous crimes and ensure justice for the victims.
