UN investigation reveals 'compelling' evidence of sexual abuse of hostages in Gaza
Following a thorough investigation, a United Nations team has uncovered 'compelling' evidence of sexual abuse inflicted upon hostages in Gaza. UN special envoy on sexual violence in conflict, Pramila Patten, disclosed the distressing findings, indicating a strong likelihood of ongoing sexual violence. The report sheds light on the harrowing plight of victims in Gaza and the urgent need for action to address this grave issue.
A United Nations team, led by Pramila Patten, the UN special envoy on sexual violence in conflict, has gathered compelling evidence indicating that hostages in Gaza have been subjected to sexual abuse. Patten stated during a press briefing on Monday that there are valid reasons to believe that the sexual violence is still ongoing.
Patten further revealed that the team has also uncovered evidence suggesting that conflict-related sexual violence, including instances of rape and gang rape, took place during Hamas' October 7 terror attack in Israel. This marks a significant development as it represents the most definitive findings by the global organization regarding sexual assault allegations stemming from the aftermath of the attack.
The UN team, led by Patten, visited Israel from January 29 to February 14 to gather information on conflict-related sexual violence during October 7 and its aftermath, as stated in a 24-page report.
Patten emphasized that the mission was not meant to be investigative. During their time in Israel, the team had 33 meetings with Israeli institutions, interviewed 34 individuals (including survivors and witnesses of the October 7 attack and released hostages), and reviewed 50 hours of attack footage.
Despite our efforts, the mission was unable to meet with any victims of sexual violence on October 7, according to Patten. She mentioned that on the first day, she called for survivors to come forward, but learned that some were currently undergoing specialized trauma treatment and were not ready to share their experiences.
Hamas has denied allegations that its militants were involved in any sexual violence during the October 7 attack.
Hamas' political office has strongly condemned some Western media outlets for working with Zionist misleading campaigns. These campaigns spread lies and allegations to demonize the Palestinian resistance. Most recently, there have been claims that resistance members committed 'sexual violence' during the Battle of Al-Aqsa Flood on October 7th. The statement was released on Telegram in December. This is an ongoing story and updates will be provided.
