Horrifying reports of sexual violence perpetrated by Hamas on 7th
October detail abhorrent acts of violence against Israeli women
and girls and other civilians. Sexual violence is all too
often a tactic to terrorise civilians, shattering lives and
leaving brutal and lifelong scars on victims, their families, and
communities. The UK stands in solidarity with all of the victims
and survivors of these abhorrent acts. The people of Israel
continue to experience the devastating impact of Hamas’ terror
attack and many families grieve for loved ones who remain
hostage. That’s why we are using all channels to facilitate their
release. We express serious concern about emerging reports
of sexual violence, against both women and men, while they were
held in Hamas captivity in Gaza and call for the immediate, safe
and unconditional release of those still held. The UK
condemns sexual violence unequivocally and without exception.
These reports must be fully investigated to ensure justice for
survivors and victims.
Conflict-related sexual violence is an abuse of human rights and
when perpetrated in the context of an armed conflict, can
constitute a violation of international humanitarian law such as
a war crime. The international community should be clear in
condemning sexual violence wherever it occurs, including in
Israel. We stand with all victims and survivors of
conflict-related sexual violence. Through our Preventing Sexual
Violence in Conflict programmes and dedicated funding totalling
£60 million, we are leading work internationally to prevent
conflict-related sexual violence and strengthen justice and
support for all survivors. It is also why I championed the
establishment of the International Alliance on Preventing Sexual
Violence in Conflict to ensure we all pull together.
Women and children are paying the highest price in this conflict,
and the scale of human suffering is intolerable. The UK has made
clear to Israel our shock at the scale of Palestinian civilian
deaths in Gaza. It is vital that Israel adheres to international
humanitarian law and takes all measures to protect civilians.
Israel must abide by its obligations to protect children under
applicable international humanitarian and human rights law.
Palestinian civilians should not suffer the consequences of
Hamas’ inhumanity and brutality. Conflict has a disproportionate
impact on women, exacerbating pre-existing inequalities and
increasing the risk of gender-based violence. The acute needs and
vulnerabilities of women in Gaza must be addressed. Palestinian
civilians are experiencing a devastating and growing humanitarian
crisis. The UK has announced a further £30 million worth of
humanitarian assistance, bringing it to a total of £60 million,
to address civilian needs including those of women and
children.
This tragedy in the Middle East, unfolding before our eyes, of
which the world is seized, needs an urgent solution to end the
conflict and a sustainable, long-term resolution. This can only
be achieved through the delivery of a two-state solution.
