Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has criticized international human rights organizations, women’s groups, and the United Nations for their perceived silence on the alleged rapes and atrocities committed by Hamas against Israeli women. In a press conference held in Tel Aviv alongside Defence Minister Yoav Gallant and Minister Benny Gantz, Netanyahu accused these groups of turning a blind eye to what he described as “horrible atrocities” and “sexual mutilation.”
“I say to the women’s rights organizations, to the human rights organizations: You’ve heard of the rape of Israeli women, horrible atrocities, sexual mutilation – where the hell are you?” Netanyahu expressed his frustration, adding, “I expect all civilized leaders, governments, nations, to speak up against this atrocity.”
The Israeli Prime Minister claimed to have met with released hostages and relatives of those still held captive, describing the meeting as “hostile and stormy.” Netanyahu stated, “I heard heartbreaking stories of abuse,” highlighting allegations of sexual abuse and unprecedented cases of cruel rape. He questioned the apparent silence of women’s groups and human rights organizations, posing the query, “Were you silent because it was Jewish women?”
Addressing Israel’s decision to allow additional humanitarian aid and fuel into Gaza, Netanyahu emphasized that the main leverage for returning hostages lies in the ongoing war effort and ground operation. He asserted that there is no contradiction between military actions and humanitarian aid, as both contribute to addressing the hostage situation.
Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, present at the conference, revealed that he instructed the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the coordinator of activities in the territories to cut off electricity, water, and fuel supplies to Gaza on October 7. Gallant expressed a move toward severing all Israeli government responsibility for Gaza. He argued that the ground operation’s pressure is the key to bringing home the hostages and justified the provision of minimal humanitarian aid to support military efforts.
Regarding the entry of fuel into Gaza, Gallant asserted that Israel has the “right to demand” that Hamas fulfill its obligations. This includes allowing the Red Cross to visit hostages and providing necessary medical assistance. The Defence Minister emphasized the reciprocal nature of such arrangements.
The accusations and statements made by the Israeli leadership have raised tensions, further complicating an already complex geopolitical situation in the region. As these developments unfold, the international community awaits responses from human rights organizations and world leaders.
