Hamas used sexual violence 'deliberately and systematically' on Oct 7, commission report finds
A report by the Civil Commission on Oct 7 Crimes Against Women and Children found Hamas and its allies used sexual violence deliberately and systematically during the October 7 attacks in southern Israel, including rape, sexual torture, and mutilation across multiple sites. The investigation documented at least 13 forms of abuse, with victims from 52 countries, and called for institutional recognition of the findings to address counterterrorism and national security implications.
A report released Tuesday by the Civil Commission on Oct 7 Crimes Against Women and Children concluded that Hamas and its Palestinian collaborators used sexual and gender-based violence as part of a deliberate strategy during the October 7 attacks in southern Israel. The investigation documented evidence of abuse at sites including the Nova Music Festival, kibbutzim near the Gaza border, Israel Defense Forces bases, and among hostages in captivity, with recovered bodies showing signs consistent with sexual violence. The report identified at least 13 recurring forms of abuse, including rape, sexual torture, shootings targeting victims’ genital areas, and abuse inflicted after death. Witness testimony described a woman being sexually assaulted before being beheaded, another dragged from a vehicle and repeatedly raped after death, and a man’s genitals severed and placed beside a woman’s body in a degrading display. Some female victims were found naked or partially unclothed, with severe mutilation and foreign objects inserted into their bodies. The report also accused Hamas of using videos and social media to amplify psychological harm, including distributing sexualized material. Dr. Cochav Elkayam-Levy, founder of the Civil Commission, stated the team faced repeated exposure to graphic material while compiling the findings, emphasizing the need for the world to acknowledge the atrocities. She called for formal institutional recognition, including hearings by policymakers and legislators, to address the crimes’ magnitude and prevent future acts of terrorism. Victims of the October 7 attacks came from 52 countries, underscoring the global impact of the assault. Elkayam-Levy urged counterterrorism and national security experts to study the report, stating that understanding these crimes is essential to confronting them. The findings aim to serve as a final act of justice for the victims while pushing for accountability and systemic recognition of the abuses.
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