UN Adds Israel and Russia to Sexual Violence in Warzones Blacklist

The United Nations has, for the first time, included Israel and Russia on its "blacklist" of parties credibly suspected of committing sexual violence in conflict zones, following a sharp increase in verified global cases. This decision, part of the UN Secretary-General's annual report on conflict-related sexual violence, was made around late May 2026, and builds upon warnings issued to both nations last year regarding potential inclusion.

The report details allegations of sexual violence by Israeli forces against Palestinian detainees in Gaza and the West Bank, including instances of rape, gang rape, and other forms of sexual abuse, primarily targeting men, women, and children. Similarly, Russian armed and security forces are accused of perpetrating systematic sexual violence, including rape and genital mutilation, against prisoners of war and civilians, mostly men, in Ukraine and Russian-occupied areas. Both countries reportedly denied access to UN investigators.

In response to their inclusion, Israel strongly condemned the decision as politically motivated and factually disconnected, announcing it would sever all ties with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres until a successor is appointed. Russia also expressed outrage, dismissing the allegations as unsubstantiated. While inclusion on the blacklist does not automatically trigger sanctions, it can lead to significant reputational damage and may bar repeat offenders from UN peacekeeping missions.