In a recent report, the United Nations-backed experts have accused Israel of employing systemic sexual and gender-based violence during its conflict with Hamas in Gaza. This allegation marks one of the most extensive reviews of such claims since the hostilities commenced following Hamas’s assault on October 7, 2023. The commission’s findings reveal a disheartening pattern of abuses against Palestinians, particularly against women and children.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed the UN Human Rights Council’s findings, labelling it an “anti-Israel circus” and neglecting to address the content of the report itself. The Independent International Commission of Inquiry aims to compile meticulous records of alleged crimes that could aid in international accountability for those responsible for such acts.
The report highlights devastating consequences, including significant harm to healthcare facilities and excessive use of explosives within civilian areas, which have led to heightened risks for women and children. The commission accused Israeli forces of committing sexual violence, including rape, against Palestinian detainees while Israel maintains its stance on the absence of systematic mistreatment.
Chris Sidoti, a member of the commission, asserted that the report established Israel’s tactical use of gender-based violence as a method to undermine Palestinians’ right to self-determination. Additionally, the commission mentioned the deliberate destruction of sexual and reproductive healthcare facilities, yet did not label the actions as genocide, a term some rights advocates have used.
Amidst claims of Israel’s targeting of civilian infrastructure, the nation insists that Hamas is to blame for civilian casualties, alleging the militants operate from residential locations. Conflict erupted after Hamas’s surprise attack, which led to significant casualties in Israel, sparking a conflict that has claimed over 48,000 Palestinian lives, predominantly women and children.
The commission recently conducted hearings for victims and advocacy groups, taking testimonies included in the report. Their scope, however, has not covered allegations of violence against Israelis during the initial attack on October 7 or against hostages in Gaza. However, these matters were acknowledged in prior reports.
The UN report accuses Israel of systematic sexual violence against Palestinians in the Gaza conflict. It details severe consequences including harm to women and children, sexual violence against detainees, and the destruction of health facilities. Netanyahu rebuffed the claims as anti-Israel bias, while the commission seeks to hold perpetrators accountable. The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant Palestinian casualties and raised concerns about civilian safety amid military actions.
The UN report brings to light serious allegations against Israel regarding sexual and gender-based violence in the ongoing conflict with Hamas. With accusations of systematic abuse and destruction of essential health services, the findings challenge Israel’s narrative and raise crucial questions about accountability. As the conflict unfolds, the international community must carefully consider these reports in their response to the ongoing crisis, ensuring the protection of vulnerable populations and justice for victims.
Original Source: apnews.com
