The UN has shamed Israel over sexual violence in conflict. Now there must be accountability
Russia is also included on the UN’s blacklist – and it faces enormous pressure from sanctions. The same consequences must apply to Israel
TL;DR
- The UN has added Israel and Russia to its annual report naming parties suspected of sexual violence in armed conflict.
- UN investigators verified sexual abuse, including rape and torture, inflicted on 31 Palestinian detainees (men, women, boys, and one girl) by the Israel Defense Forces and Israel Prison Service.
- The report highlights a systemic lack of accountability and impunity for perpetrators.
- Israel's UN ambassador, Danny Danon, denied the allegations and threatened to cut ties with the UN Secretary General.
- The article argues for international pressure, similar to that on Russia, including potential expulsion from international bodies and reparations for survivors.
- For accountability, Israel should allow investigators unrestricted access to its prisons and acknowledge the crimes.