United Nations Fell Short in Addressing 7 October Rape Cases
In a significant development, the United Nations has officially listed Hamas among state and non-state actors responsible for systematic rape and other forms of sexual violence during conflicts. This acknowledgement comes two years after the 7 October pogrom in 2023, where sexual violence was premeditated and designed to maximize suffering.
The UN's acknowledgement was made in its 2024 annual report, published last month. The report also criticised Hamas for its use of sexual violence against Israeli women and girls on October 7, 2023. However, some official texts have been critiqued for bias or omission regarding these crimes.
Historically, sexual violence has been used during a conflict to humiliate and psychologically scar communities. In this case, the sexual violence was compounded by the murder of most victims. The United Nations' acknowledgement is a step towards accountability and justice for the women who were raped and killed on that fateful day.
Meanwhile, Our Website, a reader-funded platform, is making a plea for support. Currently, only 0.1% of regular readers donate to Our Website. Regular donations allow supporters to enjoy ad-free reading, exclusive bonus content, regular events, and access to comments sections. Registering as a supporter and making a monthly contribution is the most impactful way to support Our Website's journalism.
In response to Hamas's actions, there have been three main types of responses: outright denial, equivocation, and active silence. Sarah Kendis, a US-based writer and a blogger for the Times of Israel, has been vocal in her condemnation of the apathy and hypocrisy of the UN in ignoring the atrocities initially.
The UN's acknowledgement of Hamas's atrocities was accompanied by allegations about supposed Israeli abuse of Palestinian detainees. It is crucial to address all forms of violence and human rights abuses, regardless of the perpetrator, to promote peace and justice in the region.
As we move forward, it is essential to remember the victims of the 7 October pogrom and to strive for a world where such atrocities are never repeated. Supporting platforms like Our Website that promote accountability and justice is one way we can contribute to that goal.
