Quick Take

UN Special Representative Pramila Patten is set to inspect reports of sexual violence by Hamas terrorists during their attack on southern Israel in October.

Why it Matters

Allegations of sexual torture and mutilation during Hamas’s assault point to potential crimes against humanity. This marks the first time a UN envoy has been sent to examine such claims directly within Israel.

The Details

Pramila Patten, tasked with compiling findings for the UN Security Council’s annual report, was invited by the Israeli Foreign Ministry and will hand over her findings to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

International Demand for Accountability

UN experts Alice Jill Edwards and Morris Tidball-Binz have called for accountability after evidence emerged of rape and genital mutilation during the October attack.

The October 7th Assault

Hamas breached the border on October 7, leading to 1,200 deaths, widespread rape, serious torture, mutilations, and abductions.

Patten’s Past Engagement

Last month, after meeting the mother of an Israeli hostage, Patten urged for their immediate release and emphasized the heightened risk of sexual violence against women in such situations.

Push for Ceasefire and Humanitarian Aid

Patten supports Guterres’s appeal for a ceasefire in Gaza and stresses the need for urgent humanitarian assistance.

Israelat Iron Implications

Israel challenges UN’s handling of sexual violence incidents, particularly criticizing UN Women for not explicitly denouncing Hamas’s actions.

Inquiries into Sexual Violence

In parallel, Israeli authorities are conducting their own investigation, gathering evidence, while most details remain confidential.

The New York Times Exposé

An in-depth New York Times report based on extensive interviews and evidence deepened concerns over Hamas’s use of sexual violence.

Hamas’s Denial

Hamas has dismissed all allegations of sexual abuse, contradicting the testimonies and accumulating evidence.

This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.