Special Rapporteur on Torture appalled by allegation of sexual torture by Israeli soldiers and calls for accountability

GENEVA – The UN Special Rapporteur on Torture, Alice Jill Edwards, has condemned the latest allegation of sexual assault by Israeli soldiers against a Palestinian man in their custody. This follows her formal communication with Israel in May about multiple allegations of torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment against Palestinians detained since 7 October 2023.

“There are no circumstances in which sexual torture or sexualised inhuman and degrading treatment can be justified,” Edwards said.

“All alleged crimes committed within the context of this terrible war must be investigated transparently and impartially, and those responsible held accountable by civilian courts of law.”

Thousands of Palestinians have been detained by Israel since 7 October 2023.

“This alleged sexual torture involving multiple offenders is particularly gruesome. In an official meeting with Israeli authorities, I have been informed that several soldiers suspected of involvement have been identified and are currently under investigation.”

Edwards called for this process to take place without interference.

“I am troubled by recent attempts by Israeli citizens – including reportedly one member of parliament – to intervene violently after the arrests of soldiers on these abuse charges,” the expert said.

“Criminal proceedings into all allegations must proceed unhindered. No one is above the law. No one is immune from prosecution for torture.”

The Special Rapporteur said she continues to push for accountability for all allegations of torture and/or other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment during this war, including in meetings with both representatives of the Government of Israel and the Palestinian Authority.

She reiterated her call for the immediate release of all remaining Israeli hostages who are being held unlawfully by Hamas and other armed groups, as well as the swift release of all Palestinians arbitrarily detained. She welcomed the oversight by the High Court of Justice of Sde Teiman military camp, which has been a site of many serious allegations.