United Nations Adds Israel to Conflict-Related Sexual Violence Watchlist

The United Nations has included Israel in its annual list of parties which are linked to conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV).This development has triggered the strong criticism from the Israeli counterpart who accused the UN of bias and announced the suspension of engagement with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’s office.

What Is the UN Conflict-Related Sexual Violence Blacklist?

The United Nations publishes the annual report on Conflict-Related Sexual Violence (CRSV) and to identify parties suspected of or responsible for sexual violence in armed conflicts.

The blacklist is intended to the,

• Document allegations of the sexual violence in conflict zones.
• Encourage accountability and investigations.
• Protect vulnerable populations also affected by war.
• Promote compliance with international humanitarian law.

As listed does not automatically imply any legal conviction but it signals serious concerns that require international attention and monitoring.

Why Has Israel Been Added to the List?

According to reports, the upcoming UN report had includes the Israeli entities in its annex concerning conflict-related sexual violence.

The decision follows allegations regarding the,

• Sexual violence against the Palestinian detainees.
• Abuse within detention facilities.
• Gender-based violence reported during the ongoing conflict.
• Claims documented by the various human rights organizations and UN experts.

Israel’s Strong Response

Israel has strongly rejected the allegations made by UN.

Israeli Ambassador to the UN Danny Danon had described the move as “outrageous” and accused the UN of unfairly targeting Israel.

In response,

Israel has announced it would suspend contact with the office of Antonio Guterres.

Israeli officials also argued that the allegations are politically motivated.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry have accused the UN of abandoning neutrality.

UN’s Position on the Matter

The United Nations has maintained its position as its reports are based on the collected evidence, documentation, and verification processes.

UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric indicated that despite the Israel’s reaction, the secretary-general remains open to dialogue.

Meanwhile, Reem Alsalem welcomed the listing and argued that concerns regarding sexual violence in the conflict had been raised for the some time.