- Israeli figures are legitimising sexual violence against Palestinian prisoners.
- Emboldened acts of violence in West Bank and Al-Aqsa compound.
In a disturbing development, segments of Israeli society are increasingly calling for the use of sexual violence against Palestinian prisoners, reflecting a deep decay within the Israeli society. Recent reports and statements from Israeli politicians, journalists, and media outlets have shockingly justified the rape of Palestinian detainees as a legitimate wartime tactic. This normalisation of extreme violence is a tactic used to dehumanise Palestinians.
One of the most shocking endorsements came from Israeli journalist Zvika Fogel, who publicly suggested that rape should be acceptable against Palestinian prisoners. His statement has sparked international outrage, yet it resonated with far-right segments in Israel. Fogel’s comments are part of a larger narrative that not only seeks to dehumanise Palestinians but also legitimises acts of brutality.
Israeli politicians, including Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, have echoed similar sentiments, arguing that extreme measures are justified in the conflict with Palestinians. Ben-Gvir went so far as to criticise the Israeli courts, saying “shame on the court” for not allowing such practices, suggesting that the judiciary is too lenient on those who, in his view, are defending the state.
This dangerous rhetoric comes amidst a broader escalation of violence. Recently, Israeli settlers, emboldened by the support of far-right politicians, raided several Palestinian areas and the Al-Agsa compound. These raids, marked by violence and destruction of Palestinian property, reflect the growing boldness of settler groups, who act with near impunity under the protection of the Israeli state. These acts of aggression are not isolated incidents but part of a systematic campaign to assert dominance over Palestinian territories, further entrenching the occupation and deepening the cycle of violence.
While Jordan and Egypt have spoken out against these actions, the international community largely remains a passive observer, all they do is watch the horror unfold like a sadistic movie.
Recently, several Israeli soldiers were arrested for torturing and sexually assaulting a Palestinian man, yet the response within Israel has been largely defensive. Despite the horrific nature of these crimes, a portion of the Israeli public, including lawmakers, has rallied behind the perpetrators.
Some were even heard chanting “this is Sodom” at a rally, arguing that all methods are justified in the conflict. The five reservists involved in the incident have since been released, further igniting controversy and disgust over the accountability of such actions.
The history of sexual violence as a tool of oppression in this conflict is not new. Human rights organisations have long documented the Israeli military’s use of torture, including sexual abuse, against Palestinian prisoners. This pattern of abuse, however, is now being openly talked about in Israeli media, with some advocating for its legitimacy, further eroding the moral fabric of Israeli society.
Internationally, the response has been one of condemnation, with the United States, European Union, and various human rights groups expressing deep concern. However, the on ground reality remains grim as the Israeli government is seeking to protect soldiers accused of these crimes rather than ensuring justice for the victims.
The implication of this latest episode is profound. If sexual violence is normalised as a tool of war, it marks a severe departure from international human rights. The consequences of such a descent into moral decay is catastrophic for the ethical standing of Israel to be supported by the west. As international courts take note, the question remains: will there be justice?
