UN Team Unveils Disturbing Findings
Rape and Gang Rape Likely During Hamas Attack on Israel
In a chilling revelation, a United Nations team, led by U.N. special envoy for sexual violence in conflict Pramila Patten, declared on Monday that there are "reasonable grounds to believe" sexual violence, including rape and gang rape, occurred during the October 7 attack on Israel by Hamas militants.
Investigative Mission
The U.N. team conducted a thorough investigation, visiting Israel between January 29 and February 14, to collect, analyze, and verify information related to sexual violence incidents linked to the October 7 attacks. The 24-page U.N. report revealed shocking details of sexual violence, including genital mutilation, sexualized torture, and cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment.
Hamas Rejection and Attack Details
Despite the findings, the Palestinian militant group Hamas has consistently rejected accusations of sexual violence. The October 7 attack involved Hamas fighters assaulting Israel, resulting in around 1,200 casualties and the seizure of 253 hostages, according to Israeli tallies. In response, Israel's retaliation in the Gaza Strip has led to approximately 30,000 Palestinian deaths, as reported by health authorities in the Hamas-run enclave.
On-Going Violence and Need for Investigation
The U.N. team highlighted that a "fully-fledged investigation" is essential to establish the overall magnitude, scope, and specific attribution for the sexual violence. They found clear and convincing information indicating that some hostages taken to Gaza have been subjected to various forms of conflict-related sexual violence, with reasonable grounds to believe that such violence may still be ongoing.
Additional Allegations and Israeli Response
The report also mentioned information from institutional and civil society sources about "sexual violence against Palestinian men and women in detention settings, during house raids, and at checkpoints" after October 7, particularly in detention centers in Israel. The U.N. team brought these allegations to the Israeli Ministry of Justice and Military Advocate General, who claimed no complaints of sexual violence against members of the Israeli Defense Forces had been received.
Israeli Criticism and UN Response
Israel has criticized the U.N.'s response to the October 7 attacks. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the need for a vigorous investigation and prosecution of sexual violence committed during the attack, condemning gender-based violence unequivocally. Israel's U.N. Ambassador Gilad Erdan urged unrelenting pressure on Hamas to end sexual violence and release all hostages immediately, questioning the U.N.'s stance on the matter. The international community now faces the challenge of responding decisively to the disturbing revelations brought forth by the U.N. report.