Report details systematic sexual violence during October 7 attacks

A 300-page report released by the Civil Commission on Oct. 7 Hamas Crimes Against Women and Children, an Israeli non-governmental organization, documents systematic and widespread sexual violence during the October 7, 2023, attacks in Israel and against hostages in Gaza. Founded in November 2023 by legal expert Dr. Cochav Elkayam-Levy, the committee claims that sexual violence was a planned component of the assault intended to terrorize and humiliate Israeli society. The study details 13 forms of abuse, including rape, sexual torture, mutilations, executions linked to sexual assault, and attacks performed in front of family members. These findings are based on 430 interviews, testimonies, and meetings with survivors, witnesses, and other sources. The report asserts that these crimes occurred during various phases of the conflict, including the initial abduction, transport, and captivity of hostages. This document complements previous investigations by the United Nations and other international NGOs regarding the events of that day. The commission concludes that the violence was not incidental but a coordinated tactic used by Hamas and allied organizations.