# What This Resolution Does

This is a resolution from Congress condemning rape and sexual violence committed by Hamas during its October 7, 2023 attack on Israel. A resolution is different from a law—it's essentially an official statement expressing Congress's position on an issue rather than creating new rules or policies that would affect everyday life.

The resolution documents allegations that during the October 7 attacks, Hamas fighters committed widespread sexual violence against Israeli civilians. It references eyewitness accounts, forensic evidence, body camera footage, and testimonies from survivors and released hostages describing rape, gang rape, and sexual mutilation. The resolution states that some captured Hamas fighters admitted they were ordered by Hamas leaders to commit these acts, and notes that many victims were killed and unable to provide testimony themselves.

Congress is using this resolution to make several statements: it condemns rape and sexual violence as weapons of war generally and specifically in this case; it calls on all nations to criminalize sexual assault and hold perpetrators accountable; it urges international bodies to explicitly condemn Hamas's actions; it supports independent investigations into these crimes; and it reaffirms commitment to helping survivors. The resolution also expresses concern that some international organizations have been slow or reluctant to specifically mention sexual violence in their responses to October 7.

Since this is a resolution rather than legislation, it doesn't create new laws, funding, or direct government actions. Instead, it serves as an official congressional statement on the record about these allegations and expresses the House's position that sexual violence should be condemned and investigated. It may influence how the U.S. approaches related international discussions or investigations, but it doesn't directly change laws or create new programs.

Condemning rape and sexual violence committed by Hamas in its war against Israel.

Frankel, Lois

 <p>This resolution condemns acts of rape and sexual violence as weapons of war, including those acts committed by Hamas on and since October 7, 2023. The resolution also calls on all nations to criminalize rape and sexual assault and hold accountable all perpetrators of sexual violence, including state and non-state armed groups.</p>