Pramila Patten stated in a press release, along with the report, that there is evidence to suggest that ongoing violence, including acts of “cruel, inhumane, and degrading treatment,” is being carried out against individuals currently imprisoned by Hamas and other extremist groups in the Gaza Strip.

The report from her Office, arose from an official visit to Israel at the invitation of the Government, which included a visit to the occupied West Bank, between 29 January and 14 February.

During the coordinated attack on October 7th by Hamas and other groups, the UN mission discovered evidence suggesting that sexual violence linked to the conflict took place in several areas. This included incidents of rape and gang rape in at least three locations in southern Israel.

The researchers also noted a trend among the victims, mainly women, who were discovered either fully or partially unclothed, physically restrained, and shot in various locations. This may suggest potential cases of sexual violence.

The mission declared that it was unable to confirm the occurrence of reported cases of rape in certain areas.

The complete scope may remain unknown.

The UN team believes that it may take a long time for the full scope of sexual violence from the 7 October attacks and their aftermath to become known, as stated in the press release.

The mission made up of Ms. Patten and nine experts – which was not investigative in nature – conducted 33 meetings with Israeli representatives, examining more than 5,000 photographic images and 50 hours of video footage. It conducted 34 confidential interviews including with survivors and witnesses of the 7 October attacks, released hostages, first responders and others.

According to the report, Israeli officials have encountered numerous difficulties in gathering evidence.

and peaceful protesters in
violent incidents

Accusations involving the involvement of Israeli security forces, settlers, and nonviolent demonstrators in acts of violence.

The team traveled to Ramallah in the Palestinian Territory, which is under Israeli occupation, to listen to the opinions and worries of officials and members of civil society. This was in relation to events that occurred on October 7, which reportedly involved the actions of Israeli security forces and settlers.

Ms. Patten became aware of raised concerns regarding the harsh and degrading treatment of Palestinian detainees, which includes acts of sexual violence such as invasive searches, rape threats, and forced nudity that lasts for extended periods of time.

The data collected will supplement existing information gathered by other UN representatives regarding accusations of sexual violence related to conflicts in Gaza. This information may be included in the Secretary-General’s yearly report on the subject.

Initial recommendations

Ms. Patten’s suggestions involve urging the Israeli Government to allow complete entry to the United Nations human rights office (OHCHR) and the Human Rights Council-approved independent Commission of Inquiry on the occupied region. As stated in the press release, this is to enable thorough and impartial investigations into all reported violations.

She urged Hamas to promptly and unconditionally release all individuals held as captives and to guarantee their safety, especially from sexual assault.

Ms. Patten urged all responsible authorities to prosecute those who commit sexual violence and assured her office’s assistance in strengthening domestic measures.

The press release also emphasized the importance of maintaining strict standards of accuracy and honesty when reporting and dealing with cases of sexual violence. This is due to the potential harm caused by exaggerated or sensationalized language fueling tensions, and the influence of media and political agendas, which can further harm survivors by perpetuating stigma and deepening their trauma.

The Special Representative reiterated the Secretary-General’s appeal for a humanitarian ceasefire and emphasized the need for any ceasefire agreement to recognize the significance of addressing sexual violence and to give a voice to affected communities.

She restated her deep empathy and support towards all non-combatants affected by the “cruel aggression in the area” since October 7th.

Source: news.un.org