The United Nations released a report on Monday detailing disturbing findings of sexual violence during the Hamas-led attack on Israel on Oct. 7. The report, led by Pramila Patten, the secretary-general’s special representative on sexual violence in conflict, found evidence of rape and gang rape in multiple locations, including the Nova music festival site and Road 232.
The report also highlighted instances of sexual violence against hostages held in the Gaza Strip, including rape, sexualized torture, and cruel treatment. The experts noted that some victims were first subjected to rape before being killed, and there were even incidents of rape against women’s corpses.
While Hamas leaders denied the accusations, the U.N. report could not definitively determine who was responsible for the sexual assaults due to the array of fighters involved in the attack. The report also mentioned allegations of sexual abuse against Palestinians detained by Israel.
Israel welcomed the report for recognizing the pattern of rape, torture, and sexual abuse across different locations. However, the report also mentioned challenges in verifying all reports of sexual violence due to the lack of forensic evidence and the large number of casualties.
The U.N. team called for further investigations into the allegations of sexual violence against Palestinians by Israeli security forces and settlers. They emphasized the importance of providing support, justice, and accountability for victims and survivors of sexual violence in conflict situations.
Overall, the report highlighted the complexity of investigating sexual violence in conflict zones and the need for thorough and independent investigations to uncover the true prevalence of such atrocities.
