The Dinah Project appreciates the statement by Pramila Patten, United Nations Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict and Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations, issued to mark one year since the events of October 7th, 2023.
Once again, Under Secretary Patten unambiguously and forcefully reiterates her condemnation of the sexual violence perpetrated in southern Israel by Hamas and allied armed Palestinian groups and her unwavering support for the victims, their families, and the entire communities who suffered and continue to suffer from these crimes, and in particular, the sexual crimes.
This statement is an important continuation of Patten’s first report, published in March 2024 and prepared together with the investigative team that she headed, which came to Israel in January 2024. This report confirms that crimes of sexual violence, including rape and gang rape, were committed on October 7th in several locations throughout the Gaza Envelope region and that sexual violence continues to be committed against the hostages held in captivity.
Under Secretary Patten calls for the immediate, safe release of the hostages, without any preconditions; justice for all victims; and a fully-fledged independent investigation. She also offers to make the expertise of her office available to Israeli authorities and organizations so that we can better-assist victims and expedite ongoing investigations and legal procedures.
We encourage the relevant official authorities of the State of Israel to warmly welcome Under Secretary Pramila Patten, and take her offer of support. The victims of the crimes of October 7th and the hostages are entitled to the recognition and justice that her visit will promote at home and in the international community.
Following is the SRSG Statement:
