UN Blacklists Israel and Russia for Sexual Violence in Conflict

The United Nations has added Israel and Russia to its blacklist for conflict-related sexual violence, marking the first time both countries have been included. The report cites verified cases of sexual abuse, including rape and torture, against Palestinian detainees by Israeli forces and against Ukrainians by Russian forces. Specifically, the UN documented 31 cases of sexual violence by Israeli security forces between 2023 and 2025, while 310 cases were verified for Russian forces. The abuses included gang rapes, genital mutilation, and torture methods such as electric shocks. Both nations have denied the allegations and obstructed UN investigations. The report indicates a significant rise in conflict-related sexual violence globally, particularly against women and girls, but notes that Israel and Russia also targeted men. The findings have led to heightened tensions between these countries and the UN, with Israel severing ties with the UN Secretary-General. The full report lists 77 entities involved in such abuses across various countries.

Key Points: • UN includes Israel and Russia in its blacklist for sexual violence in conflict for the first time. • Israel documented 31 cases of sexual violence against Palestinians; Russia had 310 cases against Ukrainians. • Both countries deny allegations and have obstructed UN investigations into the abuses.