Exposing Hamas Sexual Violence and Urging Global Action.
In the wake of October 7, the world faced a grim reality—Hamas terrorists unleashed sexual violence in Israel. This article reveals the aftermath, urging global unity against Hamas sexual violence.
By Heidi Bash-Harod, Executive Director of Women’s Voices Now
Hamas Sexual Violence.
On October 7, a horrifying series of events unfolded as Hamas terrorists invaded Israel, perpetrating unspeakable acts of violence against women and girls. Disturbingly, these atrocities included rape, gang rape, murder, and mutilation, witnessed by their friends and parents. The assailants callously filmed their heinous acts on body cameras, broadcasting the brutality on social media channels worldwide, leaving a scar on the global conscience.
Rape is Not Resistance; It's a War Crime.
Regardless of one’s stance on the Palestinian cause, it is crucial to assert unequivocally that rape is not a form of resistance; it is, undeniably, a war crime. The events of October 7 demand a collective condemnation and a call to action against the use of sexual violence as a tool of war.
Silence in the Face of Injustice.
In the aftermath of these events, the response from international women’s rights organizations has been dishearteningly divided. The silence from prominent entities, such as UN Women, raises concerns about the commitment to global gender equality. Failing to directly condemn the sexual violence committed by Hamas terrorists and not explicitly acknowledging Israeli women as victims perpetuates a dangerous precedent.
The Consequences of Silence.
Silence and denial in the age of widespread information accessibility signal to future violent actors that they can use rape with impunity as a weapon of war. Leveraging influential allies, including international organizations like UN Women, further exacerbates the potential for these crimes to continue unchecked.
Challenging Illusions and Confronting Inequality.
The events of October 7 shattered the illusion that the rights and protections of women are universal. In examining international law designed to advance women’s rights, a consistent antagonist emerges in the form of gender inequality perpetuated by conventions and resolutions. This marks a turning point in the struggle for gender equality, revealing a new opponent: women themselves.
Moving Forward.
As we observe the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, those who profess dedication to a vision of a more peaceful world through the complete realization of women’s rights must reflect and determine the path forward.
The Path Forward.
The path forward requires a united global stance against sexual violence as a weapon of war. It necessitates challenging existing inequalities and acknowledging the urgency of addressing violence against women as a fundamental violation of human rights. Only through collective reflection and decisive action can we hope to create a world where the dignity and rights of all women are universally upheld.
“Silence in the face of injustice perpetuates violence. We must not only condemn the acts of oppression but also break the silence that allows them to persist. Our collective voice is the force that propels change.”
– Malala Yousafzai
Watch films related
to this topic
Stay Informed with our Newsletter.
Receive exclusive invitations to our programs; free films to watch from free film collection Voices For Change; news about gender equality around the world; and access to our partners’ programs.
A Call to End The Silence on Hamas Terrorists’ Sexual Violence
Conflict in Sudan: Women’s Organizations Fight Against Sexual Violence
5 Decades of Hidden Horror: Mass Rape Suffered by Bengali Women and Girls
Non Una di Meno (“Not One Less”): Revisiting the 2023 Protests Against Femicide That Erupted in Italy
