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Survivor testimonies and accounts from body collectors reveal the extent of the atrocities. And the fact that Hamas raped and brutalized so many victims take a toll on mental health.

The chaotic aftermath of the attacks posed challenges for investigators, with limited opportunities to document crime scenes and collect forensic evidence. The first five days were marked by active combat zones, burned bodies, and missing organs, making a thorough investigation difficult.

Intentional Abuse

Civil commissions, including one headed by Dr. Elkayam-Levy, aim to collect testimony on sexual crimes and seek international recognition of the systematic abuse as Crimes Against Humanity. Dr. Elkayam-Levy stated, "We see definite patterns. It wasn't incidental; it wasn't random. They came with a clear order. It was rape as genocide."

Israel's cybercrime unit is investigating whether sexual violence was planned as part of the attack. While it is too early to confirm, data from the phones of Hamas attackers suggests a systematic approach. Documents found on captured fighters and their interrogation clips indicate premeditation.

Almost 2 months later the UN responds

Last week, UN Women issued a statement condemning the "brutal attacks by Hamas" and expressing alarm at the gender-based atrocities. Dr. Elkayam-Levy criticized the delayed response from international women's rights organizations, emphasizing the urgent need for support.

As Israel grapples with the aftermath of the attacks, the survivors' stories underscore the urgency of addressing the disturbing wave of sexual violence inflicted by Hamas militants on innocent women. 

The international community is called upon to recognize and condemn these crimes against humanity, as the survivors begin the difficult journey towards healing and justice.