A recent United Nations report, released on Monday, highlights indications of sexual violence occurring in various locations during the October 7th attack led by Hamas on Israel. The report suggests that some individuals held hostage in the Gaza Strip were subjected to rape and sexual torture.
In late January to early February, a team of experts from the United Nations, led by Pramila Patten, the secretary-general’s special representative on sexual violence in conflict, was deployed to Israel and the West Bank. Their findings, outlined in the report, indicate “reasonable grounds” to believe that sexual violence, including rape and gang rape, occurred in at least three locations: the Nova music festival site and its surroundings, as well as Road 232 and Kibbutz Re’im.
The report details instances where victims, primarily women, were first raped and then killed in most incidents. Shockingly, there were at least two incidents where women’s corpses were subjected to rape. The report also mentions allegations of sexual abuse against Palestinians detained by Israel.
While Hamas leaders deny these accusations, the report underscores the difficulty in determining responsibility due to the involvement of various fighters in the attack. Moreover, the experts highlight instances of sexual violence not widely reported previously, including the rape of a woman outside a bomb shelter at Kibbutz Re’im, corroborated by witness testimony and digital evidence.
Regarding hostages seized in Israel and taken to Gaza, the report presents compelling firsthand accounts indicating sexual violence, including rape, sexualized torture, and other forms of cruel treatment against women and children during their captivity. The report also suggests ongoing abuse against those still held.
Israel welcomed the report for acknowledging the widespread nature of the crimes across different locations. However, challenges in obtaining forensic evidence due to the scale of casualties and dispersed attack sites are noted. Additionally, the report acknowledges a deep distrust among Israelis towards international organizations like the United Nations.
The U.N. experts emphasize the complexity of accurately assessing the prevalence of sexual violence during the October 7th attacks and stress the importance of ongoing investigations. Palestinian officials and civil society representatives also raised concerns about alleged sexual violence by Israeli security forces and settlers.
In response, Israel rejected calls for investigating Palestinian claims regarding sexual violence by Israeli elements. Pramila Patten clarified that the mission aimed to amplify the voices of victims and survivors, rather than conduct investigations. The report concludes by highlighting challenges in sifting through limited and sometimes inaccurate information, particularly during conflict situations.
