Israel added to UN sexual‑violence blacklist as domestic critics demand action on settler assaults

The United Nations formally placed Israel on its conflict‑related sexual‑violence blacklist, joining Russia and Hamas. Israeli UN Ambassador Danny Danon condemned the decision as a “political” move and warned of cutting ties with the UN secretariat. The listing follows UN reports documenting multiple incidents of sexual abuse against Palestinians in Israeli detention.

In parallel, a coalition of former Israeli leaders—including ex‑prime ministers, security chiefs and a Nobel laureate—issued a public warning, urging the government and the Israel Defense Forces to end the surge in settler‑related violence in the West Bank. The letter cautioned that such conduct undermines Israel’s international standing and fuels antisemitism, while the country prepares for a national election later this year.