The International Criminal Court’s recent arrest warrants mark a crucial development in addressing the sexual violence perpetrated during and after October 7th. In their November 21st, 2024 decision, the Pre-Trial Chamber I explicitly recognized these acts as both war crimes and crimes against humanity, finding that hostages, predominantly women, “were subjected to sexual and gender based violence, including forced penetration, forced nudity, and humiliating and degrading treatment.”
This formal recognition by an international judicial body moves beyond mere allegations to actual criminal charges, validating the experiences of survivors and setting a critical precedent for prosecuting sexual violence in conflict. As an organization dedicated to fighting sexual violence and supporting survivors, we welcome this step toward justice and accountability. The ICC’s clear acknowledgment of these crimes reinforces the international community’s responsibility to protect women during conflict and ensure perpetrators are held accountable.
