Israeli report accuses Hamas of using sexual violence as weapon of war

An Israeli report indicated that Hamas utilized sexual violence as a tactical weapon in the October 7, 2023 attacks. Findings were based on survivor testimonies and evidence collected by the Dinah Project. Victims faced extreme trauma, often resulting in murder or silence, complicating evidence collection. The report documented numerous accounts of sexual assaults, including rape and humiliation, affecting at least 15 former hostages. It emphasized the need for a specialized legal approach to address the challenges posed by conflict-related sexual violence and victim silence due to extreme trauma.

"Most victims were permanently silenced - either murdered during or after the assaults or remain too traumatised to talk - creating unique evidentiary challenges."

"Citing accounts in Israeli and international media, it said 15 former hostages either experienced or witnessed some form of sexual assault which included physical sexual violence, forced nudity, verbal sexual harassment and threats of forced marriage."

Read at euronews