Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Hamas Accused of Weaponizing Sexual Violence in Attacks

1/4/2026

26 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Hamas used sexual violence as a weapon of war during the October 7 attacks, according to researchers.
Romi Gonen, a former Israeli hostage held 471 days, describes repeated sexual assault and harassment.
She recalls a captor assaulting her in a bathroom and says the trauma cannot be healed.
A Dinah Project report indicates multiple hostages reported similar experiences, while Hamas denies the allegations.

1 of 1

Story summary

Hamas used sexual violence as a weapon of war during the October 7 attacks, according to researchers.
Romi Gonen, a former Israeli hostage held 471 days, describes repeated sexual assault and harassment.
She recalls a captor assaulting her in a bathroom and says the trauma cannot be healed.
A Dinah Project report indicates multiple hostages reported similar experiences, while Hamas denies the allegations.