What’s new:
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for a thorough investigation into reports of sexual violence during the Hamas attacks on Israel on October 7. A UN commission is set to probe war crimes on both sides, with a focus on these allegations.
Why it matters:
Sexual violence in conflict zones is a grave violation of human rights and an aspect of warfare that often goes unaddressed. Guterres’ insistence on investigation underscores the UN’s commitment to addressing gender-based violence globally.
Deep dive:
The UN commission of inquiry, led by Navi Pillay, plans to gather evidence and testimonies to potentially forward to the International Criminal Court. This marks a significant step in holding perpetrators accountable and offering justice to victims. However, the commission faces challenges due to Israel’s non-cooperation, citing an anti-Israel bias.
On the ground:
Israel has initiated its own investigation into the sexual violence reported during the October 7 attacks. Accounts from first responders and military reservists, as well as photographic evidence, have surfaced, pointing to heinous sexual crimes.
The big picture:
The UN’s probing of these allegations comes amidst broader scrutiny of Israel’s military actions, including the heavy bombings in Gaza. The international community is closely watching the UN’s handling of these sensitive issues, amid concerns over the impartiality and scope of the investigation.
What’s next:
The commission is preparing a public appeal for evidence submission, while also seeking cooperation from the US and Egypt to facilitate access to relevant areas for investigation. The findings could contribute to future war crimes prosecutions.
This story was first published on jpost.com.