U.N.-backed human rights experts released a report on Wednesday detailing instances of sexual and gender-based violence involving Israeli forces and Palestinian militants during the early stages of the Israel-Hamas conflict. The report highlighted allegations of war crimes committed by both parties, with Israel also accused of crimes against humanity. Israel has denied these allegations, citing bias within the investigative body.
The report covered events from the October 7 rampage through the end of the previous year, documenting a range of rights violations and crimes. Israeli forces were accused of acts such as forced starvation, murder, collective punishment, intentional attacks on civilians, and more. Similarly, Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups were implicated in deliberate killings, mistreatment of civilians, and hostage-takings.
Notably, the report pointed to a concerning pattern of sexual and gender-based crimes against Palestinians by Israeli security forces, suggesting that such violence may be ingrained in their operating procedures. While Hamas denied allegations of sexual violence against Israeli women, the experts documented cases near various locations attacked by militants.
The expert panel, led by former U.N. human rights chief Navi Pillay, was tasked by the U.N.-backed Human Rights Council to investigate violations in Israel and Palestinian-controlled areas. Israel's refusal to cooperate with the experts has strained relations, with the country dismissing the report's findings as an attempt to equate IDF soldiers with Hamas terrorists.
These developments underscore the growing divide between Israel and U.N. bodies, particularly in light of recent accusations of war crimes following a deadly raid by Israeli forces. The situation remains tense as the conflict enters its ninth month, with little indication of resolution.
