UN adds Israeli entities to blacklist of countries that commit sexual violence
The United Nations has reportedly expanded its list of parties accused of committing sexual violence in conflict zones to include additional Israeli entities, according to Media reports
The blacklist is part of the UN’s monitoring mechanism for countries and armed groups suspected of engaging in sexual violence during armed conflicts. It already includes several non-state armed groups, including Hamas, which was officially added to the list in August 2025. The list is maintained by the UN Secretary-General and typically requires listed parties to remain under observation for at least one year.
Under the latest development, the Israeli Prison Service is expected to be included in the 2026 edition of the report. In addition, other Israeli authorities have been placed under a UN monitoring framework, meaning they are being observed and could potentially be added to the list in the future if further findings meet the required threshold.
The decision comes in the broader context of UN reporting on sexual violence in conflict. Earlier findings by Pramila Patten, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict, stated that there were reasonable grounds to believe that Hamas committed acts of rape and other forms of sexual violence during the October 7 attacks, as well as during the captivity of hostages in Gaza.
Following Hamas’ inclusion, Israeli officials have alleged that significant diplomatic pressure was later placed on the UN Secretary-General to also add Israeli entities to the list. They view the latest developments as part of that broader political and procedural process within the UN system.
The UN has not publicly confirmed all details of the 2026 list at this stage, and the matter remains part of ongoing reporting and monitoring procedures.
