Justice for Survivors of Sexual and Reproductive Violence in Palestine

In response to the devastating impact of sexual and reproductive violence in Palestine, Women’s Initiatives for Gender Justice is working to support accountability efforts for these crimes. As Israel’s military actions escalate, Palestinians face heightened risks of sexual violence, reproductive coercion, and the deliberate denial of life-saving medical care. These acts amount to grave violations of international law and require urgent international attention.

Challenges in Addressing Sexual and Reproductive Violence in Palestine

• Reproductive violence as a weapon of war – The destruction of Gaza’s healthcare system has left pregnant women, new mothers, and survivors of sexual violence without critical medical care. The blockade and attacks on hospitals have effectively weaponized reproductive health, depriving people of essential services and exacerbating maternal and neonatal mortality.

• Silencing of sexual violence survivors – Patterns of sexualized torture, degrading treatment, and threats of rape have been documented in Israeli detention centers. Yet, impunity persists, and the fear of stigma or reprisal silences many survivors. A lack of adequate reporting mechanisms further compounds the issue.

Reproductive Violence: A Gendered Atrocity

The destruction of healthcare infrastructure in Gaza has cut off access to maternal care, emergency contraception, and post-rape medical services. Pregnant women are giving birth in impossible conditions, while others suffer miscarriages due to starvation and trauma. The deliberate targeting of medical facilities, coupled with restrictions on humanitarian aid, constitutes reproductive violence under international law.

Read more: Reproductive Violence in Gaza: A Gendered Atrocity Under International Law

Addressing Israel’s Impunity for Sexual Violence

International accountability for sexual and reproductive violence in Palestine remains elusive. Patterns of sexualized torture, degrading treatment, and the use of rape threats against detainees have been documented. Yet, Israel continues to evade scrutiny under international law. The International Criminal Court (ICC) and other accountability mechanisms must recognize these crimes for what they are—grave violations of international human rights and humanitarian law.

Read more: Can the ICC Call It What It Is? Addressing Israel’s Impunity for Sexual Violence in Palestine