Gal Gadot urges action over silence on sexual violence during October 7th Hamas attack

Israeli actress Gal Gadot has raised her voice, calling out the silence surrounding reports of sexual violence committed by Hamas during the October 7th attack on Israel. In an impassioned Instagram post, Gadot expressed concern over the ongoing danger faced by female hostages, nearing three months in captivity.

"The world has failed the women of October 7th," Gadot's message emphasized. "We claim to stand against rape and violence against women. We cannot let women be victimized and then silenced. It's time to believe and stand with women, speaking out for their rights."

Gadot's remarks appeared to target Western nations, including the U.S. and the U.K., questioning their response to Israeli media reports detailing sexual violence by Hamas during the October 7th incident.


Prominent personalities in the entertainment industry, including Julianna Margulies, have mirrored worries regarding the apparent silence observed within women's advocacy groups concerning the disturbing accounts of rape, sexual abuse, and mutilation attributed to Hamas.

There has been notable criticism aimed at the United Nations for what's perceived as a lack of action. Despite UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres acknowledging the reports of sexual violence on November 30th, his delayed response triggered strong criticism in Israel and globally. This outcry emphasizes the pressing need to address sexual violence wielded as a tactic during conflicts.

Gadot reiterated the urgency of the situation, pointing to the distressing video of Shani Louk, paraded naked and humiliated by her captors immediately after the attack. She urged action from women and their allies, calling on influential groups like the UN to secure the immediate release of female hostages, emphasizing that they cannot endure further horrors.

The actress has been vocal since the October 7th events, using her social media platform to advocate fervently for the hostages' release and sharing their personal stories. Alongside other prominent figures, Gadot signed an open letter on October 12th, publicly supporting Israel and demanding the return of the hostages.

"This is our moment as women and allies to act," Gadot urged. "I appeal to those championing women's rights globally – from the UN to human rights organizations – to join in demanding the immediate release of every woman held captive by Hamas. Every moment counts for these women, and they cannot endure this horror any longer."

Gadot's call for action underscores the pressing need for a united global response to ensure the safety and freedom of the female hostages held captive since the October 7th attack.