News Desk, Kolkata :
Recent Developments: A Harrowing Tale of War, Captivity, and Struggles in Israel
In the midst of the conflict between Israel and Hamas on October 7, Tal Avivi, an Israeli journalist, accused Hamas members of sexually assaulting Israeli women during their attacks. On that day, they abducted several women, taking them to Gaza. While some were eventually released, the majority remain in Hamas captivity. Even in confinement, these women face the grim possibility of sexual violence, according to claims made by the Israeli government.
Despite more than four months passing since the assault, Israel has been unable to secure the release of these women, leaving Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu facing the anguish of their families. However, before returning these captives home, a crucial question looms over the Israeli government – what will happen if the women impregnated as a result of these assaults seek permission for abortion? Or will they be compelled to bring the children into the world as a consequence of unwanted pregnancies?
In Israel, abortion is not encouraged, and a special committee decides whether to permit it. Upon requesting permission, the committee evaluates the circumstances and grants approval accordingly. Yet, the plight of those Hamas members who subjected pregnant women to sexual violence poses a unique challenge. The Israeli government has decided that women impregnated due to assault must decide whether to undergo abortion or raise the children. Those who choose to keep their babies will receive financial, legal, and mental health support from the government.
Meanwhile, families of the captives live in fear. The longer their loved ones remain in Hamas captivity, the higher the risk of them becoming pregnant. Those who are already pregnant may face delays in obtaining permission for abortion. Urging Prime Minister Netanyahu to take swift action for the release of the remaining prisoners, their concerns are not unfounded.
As of now, Hamas has released 110 prisoners, but over 130 Israelis remain in captivity. Among the freed individuals, at least 10 women claim to have been victims of sexual assault. Men have also reported being subjected to sexual violence by Hamas members. The ordeal continues for those who were captives in Gaza for more than 50 days, like Chen Almog-Goldstein.
Chen Almog-Goldstein, who recently addressed the Israeli Parliament, revealed that some Israeli female captives were given ‘inappropriate attire’ by Hamas members, and even their dolls were transformed into symbols of humiliation. According to Almog-Goldstein, Hamas members transformed dolls into effigies of pregnant women. The situation for women captives is beyond belief.
The issue goes beyond physical captivity; it extends to psychological torment. A recent report from the Associated Press stated that Hamas released some Israeli civilian captives who were subjected to sexual violence. The trauma is not limited to women; men have also been victims. Hamas member Aviva Sigal stated, “Hamas members have transformed dolls into symbols of humiliation. When women captives are pleased, they can do as they please. However, for those women still held captive, it remains inconceivable.”
In conclusion, the unfolding narrative in Israel tells a tale of anguish, resilience, and the complexities faced by those impacted by the conflict. The fate of the remaining captives hangs in the balance, and the Israeli government grapples with unprecedented challenges. As the world watches, the human toll of war becomes increasingly evident, emphasizing the urgent need for resolution and healing in this troubled region.
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