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Not all are celebrating this year

Last week, just days before International Women's Day, the United Nations Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict, Pramila Patten, issued a report following her team's visit to Israel and the West Bank.

This visit was prompted by the heinous attack by Hamas terrorists on Israel on Oct 7, 2023, in which more than 1,200 people, including 39 Thai nationals, were killed. Thousands more were injured, and more than 240 were taken to Gaza to be used as hostages and human shields. Some 134 hostages remain in Gaza, including eight Thai nationals.

The visit aimed to shed light on allegations of conflict-related sexual violence -- a grievous violation of human rights and dignity.

The evidence gathered during this meticulously conducted visit is both thorough and harrowing. Ms Patten's team, equipped with a vast array of technical expertise, engaged in meetings with Israeli national institutions, conducted confidential interviews with survivors, witnesses, and first responders, and reviewed thousands of photographic images and footage.

Despite the challenges faced in evidence collection -- amplified by the brutality of the attacks and the complexities of an active conflict zone -- the findings present a clear and convincing picture of sexual violence, including rape, sexualised torture, and inhuman treatment against hostages, that are likely ongoing against those still held in captivity.

The mission found that sexual violence occurred at multiple locations during the Oct 7 attacks, with victims subjected to unspeakable atrocities. This violence not only scars the survivors and the families of the victims, but also our collective humanity. On International Women's Day, a day dedicated to celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women worldwide, these findings are a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities women face, particularly in conflict zones.

Hamas, recognised globally for its terror activities, has once again shown a blatant disregard for human life and dignity. These acts of sexual violence serve as a grim testament to the terror inflicted by Hamas not just on Israelis but also on the very fabric of our shared humanity. Such actions cannot and should not be separated from the broader context of terrorism that seeks to destabilise and destroy.

The call by Ms Patten for a fully-fledged investigation into these violations is not only welcome but essential. It is a call to the international community to stand united in the face of terror and to ensure that those responsible for such heinous acts are held accountable. Justice for the victims and survivors of these attacks is non-negotiable.

Furthermore, the immediate and unconditional release of all individuals held in captivity by Hamas is imperative. The protection of these individuals, including from sexual violence, is a matter of urgent humanitarian concern. The international community must exert pressure on Hamas and other groups to adhere to basic human rights standards.

In the spirit of International Women's Day, I urge the global community to condemn in the strongest terms the actions of Hamas and to stand in solidarity with the victims and survivors of sexual violence. It is also a moment to reaffirm our commitment to the safety and empowerment of women and girls worldwide, ensuring their voices are heard and their rights protected, especially in conflict situations.

This is a call to action for all nations and individuals who cherish human dignity and justice. Let us work together to address and eliminate sexual violence in conflict, holding perpetrators accountable, supporting survivors, and moving towards a world where the rights and dignity of every individual are upheld.


Orna Sagiv is the Ambassador of Israel to Thailand.


This article was downloaded by calibre from https://www.bangkokpost.com/opinion/opinion/2757728/not-all-are-celebrating-this-year


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