Independent commission reports Hamas used systematic sexual violencesystematic sexual violence in October 7 attacks
An independent Israeli commission released a report on May 12, 2026, concluding that Hamas and allied groups committed systematic and widespread sexual violence during their October 7, 2023, attacks on Israel and against hostages in Gaza.
The two-year investigation documents these acts as integral to the assault, classifying them as war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocidal acts under international law.
The findings bolster global calls for accountability in the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict.
- The October 7 assault was the deadliest day for Jews since the Holocaust, with 1,200 lives lost.
- Israel's Iron Dome intercepted over 90% of Hamas rockets during the initial barrage.
Israel-Hamas War
Israel and Hamas are in the second phase of the U.S.-backed Gaza peace plan, with the last living hostages already returned and Israel still holding a large security presence inside Gaza.[5][7][8] The main dispute now is over Hamas disarmament, the scope and pace of Israeli withdrawal, and who will govern Gaza after the fighting.
7 October
Hamas launches surprise attack on Israel, killing over 1,300 people and taking hundreds of hostages2008-2009
Israel launches major military operation in Gaza; conflict kills hundreds and displaces thousands
