In breaking news, Vice President Kamala Harris is set to host a White House event on Monday focusing on the Israel-Hamas war, highlighting conflict-related sexual violence amid tense negotiations for a ceasefire agreement.
Harris has been vocal about the situation in Gaza and the humanitarian crisis it has created. The administration has been putting pressure on Hamas to accept a ceasefire proposal, with planning for the event in the works for months.
During the event, Harris will speak on conflict-related sexual violence, host a panel discussion with survivors and experts, and screen a portion of the documentary film, “Screams Before Silence,” which addresses Hamas’ sexual violence. Sheryl Sandberg, the film’s leader, will also deliver remarks.
A recent report by the Association of Rape Crisis Centers in Israel detailed brutal sexual assaults by Hamas militants on Israeli civilians, with victims suffering extreme acts of sexual violence, including gang rapes and murders.
Former hostages released in late November testified about ongoing sexual abuse in Gaza, with a United Nations report corroborating the findings. President Joe Biden expressed uncertainty about reaching a ceasefire deal, urging Hamas to cooperate.
The event serves as a platform to address sexual violence as a global issue and support survivors while holding perpetrators accountable. Sandberg emphasized the importance of standing together as a community against sexual violence.
