Israeli and Russian Forces Appear on UN's Sexual Violence Blacklist for First Time

For the first time, Israeli and Russian forces have been added to the UN blacklist for sexual violence in conflict zones, alongside Hamas militants. A UN report identifies an increase in such cases, prompting outrage and denial from both nations.

The United Nations has, for the first time, placed Israeli forces on its annual blacklist concerning sexual violence in conflict areas. This decision arose from accusations related to the handling of Palestinian detainees. Israeli representatives quickly dismissed these charges as fabrications.

The comprehensive UN report, extending 35 pages, also added Russian forces due to incidents involving prisoners of war and civilians during the Ukraine conflict. The documentation revealed a significant rise in such cases from the previous year, including separate allegations against Hamas militants earlier accused for acts following the October 2023 conflict in Gaza.

Despite denials from both Israeli and Russian officials—with Israel’s representation describing the UN as biased—the report documents various incidents. These include attacks on individuals from Gaza and the West Bank, with severe allegations against Israel Security Forces relating to sexual violations and torture forms. Repeated offenses have been reported, involving multiple alleged victims.

In response, Russia criticized the listing and mentioned assembling a counter-report on the treatment of Russian prisoners by Ukraine. Both nations challenge the UN’s findings, often limiting investigation access, but the UN stands by its claims with substantial documented cases.