Gaza City, Gaza Strip – The United Nations has released a report alleging that Hamas militants committed acts of sexual violence, including rape and gang rape, during attacks in Israel on October 7th. The report, led by the UN Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict, Pramila Patten, found “reasonable grounds to believe” that sexual violence took place in multiple locations during the attacks.
According to the report, the acts of sexual violence occurred in at least three locations, including the Nova music festival site, Road 232, and Kibbutz Re’im. Hamas gunmen reportedly infiltrated southern Israel, resulting in the death of approximately 1,200 people and the taking of 253 hostages. In response, Israel launched a military campaign in Gaza, where thousands were killed.
The UN team visited Israel between January 29th and February 14th but was unable to interview victims due to various challenges. While some allegations of sexual violence were deemed unfounded, the report also highlighted concerns regarding sexual violence against Palestinians in Israeli custody. Israel has welcomed the report’s recognition of sexual crimes committed by Hamas but has raised objections to other findings in the report.
Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz criticized the UN for not convening the Security Council to discuss the report’s findings and declare Hamas a terrorist organization. Meanwhile, UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric defended UN Secretary General António Guterres and his support of the report’s findings.
Overall, the UN report sheds light on the serious allegations of sexual violence in conflict zones and underscores the need for accountability and justice for all victims involved in such atrocities.