JERUSALEM: Hamas and its allies committed systematic, widespread sexual violence during their October 7, 2023 attack on Israel and against hostages they took back to Gaza, according to a report released Tuesday by an independent Israeli investigative commission.
Following a two-year independent investigation, the Civil Commission concludes that sexual and gender-based violence was systematic, widespread, and integral to the October 7th attacks and their aftermath, the body said in its 300-page report, which builds on prior investigations, including by the UN, to determine the full scale of the sexual violence.
Key Findings of the Report
The commission documented numerous cases of rape, sexual assault, and genital mutilation perpetrated by Hamas and allied groups. The report states that such violence was not random but part of a coordinated strategy to terrorize and degrade victims.
Victims included both Israeli civilians and military personnel, as well as foreign nationals. The report also details sexual abuse of hostages held in Gaza, with some survivors testifying to repeated assaults.
International Reactions
The findings have drawn condemnation from human rights organizations and world leaders. The United Nations has previously documented evidence of sexual violence during the attacks, but this report provides the most comprehensive account to date.
Hamas has denied the allegations, calling them politically motivated. However, the commission asserts that its evidence includes testimonies, forensic data, and documentation from multiple sources.
Call for Justice
The commission urges the international community to recognize these acts as crimes against humanity and to hold perpetrators accountable. It also calls for support for survivors and their families.
This report is expected to fuel ongoing debates about accountability and the need for international legal action against Hamas leaders.
