Vice President Kamala Harris met with an Israeli lawyer who shared a harrowing account of sexual assault while held hostage in Gaza. Harris highlighted the urgent need to address conflict-related sexual violence as more hostages are released.
Harris Meets with Israeli Lawyer Over Gaza Assault
Vice President Kamala Harris met with an Israeli lawyer who shared her harrowing experience of being sexually assaulted while held hostage in Gaza. Harris expressed her concern that more such stories might emerge as additional hostages are freed.
Event Highlights Conflict-Related Sexual Violence
At an event focused on reducing sexual violence in conflicts, Harris recounted her conversation with Amit Soussana, abducted during Hamas’ attack on Israel in October. Soussana, who was assaulted in Gaza, was released in November during a temporary ceasefire.
Harris Recounts Gruesome Atrocities
Harris described seeing images of Israeli women taken by Hamas on October 7. She also highlighted reports of sexual violence at the Nova music festival, where victims were found brutally assaulted.
Biden Administration’s Ceasefire Efforts
As Harris details these violent accounts, the Biden administration continues to push for a ceasefire in Gaza. She called on Hamas to accept the U.S.-backed proposal to halt the fighting.
Vice President’s Warning on Hostage Accounts
Harris warned that more testimonies of abuse are likely as hostages are released. She emphasized the importance of acknowledging and addressing these horrors.
Denials Amidst Conflict
Hamas has denied allegations of sexual assault during their attacks and the captivity of hostages. False reports have previously exacerbated tensions between Hamas and Israel.
UN Report Details Sexual Violence by Hamas
A United Nations report in March found credible evidence that Hamas committed rape, “sexualized torture,” and other inhumane treatment of women during its October 7, 2024, attack. The report also suggested that such violence might still be occurring.
Harris Expresses Sympathy for Survivors
Vice President Harris expressed deep sympathy for the survivors and their families, acknowledging the suffering experienced over the past eight months in Israel and Gaza. She highlighted the ongoing pain and loss endured by many.
Historical Context of Sexual Violence in War
Harris noted that sexual violence has long been used as a weapon in conflicts. She praised recent international progress in recognizing such acts as violations of peace, stability, and human rights.
Biden Administration’s Efforts to Combat Sexual Violence
The Biden administration has taken steps to prevent sexual violence, including providing rape kits, healthcare for survivors, and training for militaries and international peacekeepers. The U.S. has also imposed sanctions on individuals involved in conflicts in Iraq, Sudan, and the Central African Republic.
Call for Greater Accountability
Despite these efforts, Harris acknowledged that global systems of accountability remain inadequate. She called for more comprehensive measures to address and prevent these crimes.
