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Last Updated on January 3, 2024.

Washington – Win Without War Executive Director Sara Haghdoosti released the following statement responding to reports Hamas used sexual violence during the October 7th attacks.

“Reports Hamas members used sexual violence on October 7 are horrifying. We unequivocally condemn these and any acts of sexual assault. There is no justification for acts of sexual violence. Many have now shared first-hand and witness accounts of such experiences – we believe them. 

“These reports reinforce our alarm about the safety and well-being of all hostages, in particular women, still in Hamas custody. We urge everyone to prioritize getting them home to their families.

“War is and has always been horrific for women. In every conflict, women are disproportionately targeted, more likely to face sexual violence, and less able to access critical resources. War has never been, nor will it ever be, a path to women’s liberation or justice.

“We believe that the people responsible for the horrific violence on October 7 should be held accountable. The pathway to that accountability is not through further collective punishment and bombing of civilians. That’s why now — and always — we push for peace. We continue to urge for a lasting ceasefire, to see the hostages return home to their loved ones, and an end to the Israeli military’s operations which continue to result in massive suffering and loss of life that disproportionately impacts women and children in Gaza.

“Women in Israel and Palestine and people everywhere deserve real peace — the ability to live and thrive with dignity without the threat of violence. We refuse to accept anything less and urge our leaders to do the same.”  

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Win Without War is a diverse network of activists and national organizations working for progressive foreign policy in the United States.

December 6, 2023