Israeli Victims of Sexual Abuse by Hamas 2024-03-20
2024-03-20
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
Israeli victims are facing sexual violence and abuse since 7 October, causing concern about their safety and the support they receive from the government. Families of hostages have been meeting with government officials.
What discussions she has had with Cabinet colleagues on support for Israeli victims of sexual abuse by Hamas. I am concerned about the reports of sexual violence since 7 October in Israel and Gaza, where many hostages face daily threats of rape, assault, and violence. The families of these hostages have been meeting government officials recently.
This Government are appalled by reports of sexual violence since 7 October in Israel and Gaza. I am working closely with Cabinet colleagues on the issue. We have been meeting with families of hostages, both male and female, who face daily threats of rape, assault, and violence.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific discussions or actions taken to support victims were not detailed
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
A UN report confirmed that Israeli women were subjected to sexual violence on 7 October, and there are concerns about whether victims can trust the UN enough to discuss their experiences. The previous question highlighted the need for a voice and respect for these victims.
The United Nations recently reported confirming that sexual violence was used against Israeli women on 7 October. Last week I raised concerns with the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office that women did not feel they could trust the UN enough to speak about their experiences. What can my right hon. Friend do to encourage the international community to unite in calling out sexual violence and those who deny it happens?
Following calls from the UK, Lord Ahmad attended the UN Security Council last week to express deep concerns about the findings of the UN special representatives on their recent visit. The UK leads work internationally through the preventing sexual violence initiative and has dedicated £60 million to prevent conflict-related sexual violence.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific actions to encourage international community unity were not detailed
Response accuracy