United Nations adds Israel and Russia to conflict‑related sexual violence blacklist

The United Nations has placed the Israeli and Russian security forces on its blacklist for sexual violence linked to armed conflicts. The decision follows accusations from detainees and a UN annual report that documented ongoing cases of rape, gang rape, genital torture, forced nudity and other abuses against Palestinians in the occupied territories and against Ukrainians in Russian‑controlled areas. The report noted 14 men, 7 women, 9 boys and 1 girl as victims in Gaza and the West Bank, with perpetrators identified as members of the Israeli army, security services and prison authorities. In Ukraine, the UN cited 310 instances of sexual violence committed by Russian forces.

UN Secretary‑General Antonio Guterres had warned both countries of possible listing, but Israeli officials responded that “our deal with the Secretary‑General is over,” and Israel announced a freeze of relations with the UN Secretary‑General’s office until the end of his term. Russian authorities have likewise resisted UN inspection teams, denying access to detention sites.

The blacklist will be forwarded to the Security Council for further action.