Israeli report accuses Hamas of systematic sexual violence on October 7 attack

May 12, Kathmandu: An independent Israeli investigative commission has accused Hamas of carrying out “systematic and widespread” sexual violence during the October 7, 2023 attack on Israel and against hostages held in Gaza.

The findings were recently released in a 300-page report by the Civil Commission on October 7th Crimes by Hamas against Women and Children. The commission said its two-year investigation concluded that sexual and gender-based violence was “integral” to the attacks and subsequent hostage captivity.

According to the report, abuses including rape, sexualised torture, and humiliation occurred at multiple locations, including residential communities, military sites, shelters, and the Nova music festival grounds. Investigators reviewed more than 10,000 photos and video clips and conducted over 430 interviews with survivors, witnesses, returned hostages, experts, and victims’ families.

The commission stated that many victims did not survive to testify, while others continue to suffer severe trauma. It concluded that the acts constituted war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocidal acts under international law.