Hamas 'weaponised' sexual violence in 7 October attacks, Israeli investigation says
BBC • • world
Key Points:
- An independent Israeli investigation has documented "systematic, widespread" sexual violence by Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups during the 7 October 2023 attacks and against hostages, based on extensive interviews, photos, videos, and official records.
- The report details horrific acts including gang rapes, sexual assaults, genital mutilation, and the use of sexual violence as a weapon, affecting both women and men, with some survivors giving public testimony while others remain confidential.
- The investigation highlights cases of family members being forced to commit sexual acts on each other, describing this as part of a pattern exploiting familial relationships to terrorize victims.
- The Civil Commission concluded that these acts constitute war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocidal acts under international law, with evidence preserved for potential future prosecutions.
- Despite some initial misinformation and loss of forensic evidence, the investigation took rigorous steps to verify findings independently, aiming to ensure victims' suffering is acknowledged and not forgotten.