Independent Israeli Inquiry Reports Extreme Sexual Violence and Torture Against Hamas Hostages

An independent Israeli investigation commission has published a report stating that Hamas and its allies committed extreme sexual violence and torture against hostages in Israel following their attack on October 7, 2023. The civilian commission, in a report released on Tuesday, has urged international investigation bodies, including the United Nations, to determine the extent of sexual violence against women and children held hostage during the war in the Gaza Strip. After two years of independent investigation, the commission concluded that sexual and gender-based violence created an unbearable situation for the hostages during the October 7 attack and the subsequent captivity. According to the report, Hamas and its allies continuously subjected victims to sexual abuse and torture at various stages during their abduction, transfer, and captivity. Investigators analyzed facts obtained from residential communities, the Nova music festival site, roads, shelters, and military installations during their investigation. The commission stated that this report was prepared based on over 430 formal and informal interviews, testimony sessions, witness statements, and discussions with released hostages. The report includes primary materials such as witness interviews, photos, videos, and official records. Based on the direct accounts of released hostages, the mission team has reported clear and credible information about rape, sexual torture, and cruel inhuman treatment during captivity. The findings of the civilian commission indicate that these crimes constitute war crimes, crimes against humanity, and acts contrary to international law. However, Hamas has repeatedly denied such allegations since 2023. On the other hand, Israel has been criticizing the United Nations and major international human rights organizations for not showing alertness and being slow to condemn the incidents of sexual violence that occurred after October 7.