Gender-based Violence Hamas 2023-12-13
2023-12-13
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
Reports of gender-based violence by Hamas have been documented since October 7, 2023.
If she will have discussions with the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs on the Government's response to reports of gender-based violence by Hamas since 7 October 2023.
It is crucial that the international community recognises the atrocities committed by Hamas, and that Hamas are held to account for their barbarism. That is why we are engaging with partners, including the UN, to ensure that perpetrators are held to account for their depravity.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide specific details on discussions or response plans
Engaging With Partners
Un
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Released hostages have reported physical and sexual violence by Hamas, with the Israeli health service noting drugging to make hostages appear happy in videos.
I thank my right hon. Friend for that answer. Hostages who have been released have reported Hamas atrocities, such as being subjected to physical and sexual violence in captivity. The Israeli health service also reports that hostages have been drugged to make them look happy on videos. Will my right hon. Friend join me in condemning Hamas for doing that and in demanding that the International Committee of the Red Cross has access to every single one of the hostages immediately?
I share my hon. Friend's horror. It is extremely distressing to hear all those reports, and I do unequivocally condemn the sexual violence that is being reported. We continue to engage regularly with partners, including the UN. I will pick up the points that he raised directly with the Foreign Office to see whether we can do what he asks.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not commit to specific actions or timelines for ICRC access
Engaging Regularly With Partners
Un
Response accuracy
Q3
Direct Answer
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Context
The UK has a seat on the UN Human Rights Council.
Will the UK use its seat on the UN Human Rights Council to raise the use of gender-based violence on 7 October, and to secure a clear condemnation from its members of the rape, murder and torture perpetrated against women by Hamas on 7 October?
I thank the hon. Lady for her question. Yes, we will. We have raised the reports of sexual violence attacks on 7 October with UN Women and with the Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy