RESPONDING TO MONSTROUS ACTS
Where is the outrage to mass rapes?
We have all seen the horrors that have resulted from Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack on Israel’s civilians and defense forces, and Hamas’ horrifying use of civilians and hostages as human shields in the ensuing conflict. But when it comes to these terrorists’ use of sexual violence against women as a tool of war, the silence has been deafening.
Why is it so hard to acknowledge this reality and simply say “Rape is wrong. In any context, at any time.” Even for those who disagree with Israel’s response to Hamas’ attacks, this should not be difficult. But it seems like it is.
As a public official, I have always prioritized the pursuit of justice for victims and survivors of sexual and gender-based violence. In our state and city legislatures, I’ve fought to reduce and prevent violence against women; as the Queens district attorney, I investigate and successfully prosecute rapists and implemented initiatives to combat sexual violence. The stories of every victim and survivor of sexual assault deserve to be heard, supported, and given justice.
And as a Jewish woman, I have long stood up for all victims of bigotry and hatred, whether it is antisemitism or Islamophobia, racial bias, hatred directed against members of the LGBTQ community, or any other group who faces discrimination.
Our entire city and state are deeply enriched by our diversity. Here in Queens, the World’s Borough, we are a microcosm of the global society. Our efforts to uphold justice locally can serve as a model for addressing injustices globally.
So I cannot understand the lack of collective outrage, and I cannot remain silent about the sexual violence against Israeli women by Hamas terrorists on Oct. 7.
It is stunning to see so little media coverage and discussion of this, and hear the tepid responses from institutions like the UN surrounding the sexual assaults and rape committed by Hamas. Silence is complicity, not neutrality. Choosing not to address these horrific crimes denies victims their voice and their justice.
Only by raising awareness can we ensure that these serious human rights violations are not ignored or neglected any further.
The details of these crimes to emerge from eyewitness accounts and testimonies of first responders, and morgue workers are beyond horrific. They include reports of survivors recounting witnessing gang rapes, naked female corpses found tied to beds, and victims mutilated with scissors or a knife.
The sexual violence against women by Hamas is not just alarming; it is a call to action for every individual and organization who says they are committed to human rights and dignity. As Hillary Clinton said, “Women’s rights are human rights.” Why is it so hard to uphold this principle when those women are Israeli?
And you do not need to be deeply committed to the safety and security of Israel — as I am — to do so. This issue transcends religious or political affiliations, ideologies, or where you stand on the war. It is about standing up against sexual violence and rape.
Yet many in the international community and here at home either ignore or equivocate on the reports of Hamas’ sexual violence. I am especially disappointed by the lack of outrage from those who claim to fight for women’s rights. Such stances are not only a failure in supporting victims but also undermine the global fight against sexual violence. Have we forgotten our collective humanity?
Rape and sexual violence are abhorrent in any circumstance and must be universally condemned without conditions, no matter what side of any conflict one is on. The failure to do so not only harms the survivors but also emboldens the perpetrators — not only in this case, but potentially far into the future.
But where is the outrage? Why won’t activists stand with a collective voice and say “Rape is wrong, period.” If we allow anyone to contextualize this brutality because of political affiliation, we are making this violence acceptable in future conflicts and future wars. And we can never allow that to happen.
Those of us committed to fighting sexual violence have a moral obligation to stand up against such atrocities wherever they occur. Our collective voice is powerful tool to advocate for the rights and dignity of all victims of sexual assault and gender-based violence.
Together, we must ensure that the horrors faced by these women are not forgotten. Outrage is the proper response here, so let’s stand in solidarity on that point for all women. The time for silence is over; the time for action is now.
Katz has served as the district attorney of Queens since 2020.