Report Details Systematic Sexual Violence by Hamas During October 7 Attacks

An Israeli non-profit's investigation reveals widespread sexual violence committed by Hamas during the October 7, 2023, attacks, including rape, torture, and forced nudity, affecting both women and men.

The Civil Commission on October 7 Crimes by Hamas against Women and Children conducted a two-year investigation, gathering over 400 testimonies and analyzing nearly 2,000 hours of visual evidence. The report documents various forms of sexual violence, including gang rape, torture, forced nudity, and abuse of hostages, including children. Key findings suggest these actions were deliberate tactics used by Hamas as part of their broader terror activities.

The report highlights systemic sexual violence at locations like the Nova music festival, kibbutzim, military bases, and during captivity. Survivors and witnesses recount harrowing events, and many victims did not survive to testify. The report claims these crimes were part of a deliberate strategy, although it acknowledges a lack of direct evidence of orders from Hamas leadership.

The United Nations has also reported suspicions of sexual crimes by Hamas during the October 7 attacks. The UN Commission of Inquiry documented cases indicative of sexual violence perpetrated against women and men in and around the Nova festival site, as well as several kibbutzim.

The Civil Commission's report underscores the trauma endured by survivors and criticizes both Israeli and international responses to the allegations. It calls for a shift in how conflict-related sexual violence is handled legally, advocating for alternative forms of evidence and collective criminal responsibility.

The findings have been endorsed by public figures like Hillary Clinton and Sheryl Sandberg, though some critics question the author's past research, and the findings have not been independently verified by the Associated Press.

The report coincides with ongoing ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas.