In a surprising discovery, UN Special Representative Pramila Patten revealed “clear and convincing information” about Gaza detainees being sexually abused. The research implies that Hamas and other radicals in Gaza may still be subjected to “cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment,” including such actions.
The government invited the UN team to see the occupied West Bank from January 29 to February 14 during a visit to Israel. The team found reasonable evidence of conflict-related sexual assault in various sites after Hamas and others orchestrated an October 7 attack. At least three southern Israeli sites saw rape and gang rape.
The study describes a disturbing pattern of women, mostly naked, shackled, and shot in many locations, suggesting sexual assault. Despite certain claimed rapes in some regions being unconfirmed, the UN team warns that the entire scale of sexual violence during the October 7 assaults and their aftermath may take months to surface.
Patten and her non-investigative team spoke with Israeli personnel, analyzed hundreds of photographs and hours of video material, and interviewed survivors, freed captives, and first responders. According to the article, Israeli officials struggle to gather proof.
Patten advises the Israeli government to allow the UN human rights office and independent Commission of Inquiry to investigate alleged abuses. She also demands that Hamas free all hostages and protect them from sexual assault. The study stresses punishment for sexual violence abusers and the highest standards of information integrity to prevent exacerbating tensions or traumatizing survivors.
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