A United Nations report released on Monday revealed 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, detailed instances of rape, gang rape, and even the rape of women’s corpses in multiple locations.
The experts found “reasonable grounds” to believe that sexual violence occurred at the Nova music festival site, Road 232, and Kibbutz Re’im. Victims were reportedly first subjected to rape before being killed, with some incidents involving the rape of women’s corpses.
The report also highlighted allegations of sexual abuse against Palestinians detained by Israel, as well as the sexual violence inflicted on hostages held in the Gaza Strip. The experts found “clear and convincing information” that women and children were subjected to rape, sexualized torture, and other forms of abuse during their captivity.
Israel welcomed the report for recognizing the pattern of rape, torture, and sexual abuse committed during the attack. However, the report also noted challenges in verifying 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. The report emphasized the importance of providing support, justice, and accountability for the victims and survivors of sexual violence.
Overall, the report highlighted the complexities and challenges in uncovering the true prevalence of sexual violence during the attack and emphasized the need for continued efforts to address and prevent such atrocities in conflict situations.
