Israeli authorities and the United Nations are investigating reports of rape and sexual violence allegedly carried out by Hamas on October 7th against Israeli citizens, including girls, women, and some men. There are also allegations of ongoing sexual violence against hostages who are still being held captive in Gaza.
Hamas, classified as a terrorist organization by the United States government, has consistently denied these accusations. However, mounting evidence has led to increased attention on the issue. Former COO of MEDA, Sheryl Sandberg, has been vocal about condemning the sexual violence and has called out the relative silence by the United Nations.