Alice Edwards, the UN Human Rights Council-appointed Special Rapporteur on Torture, has taken a strong stance against the killing of six Israeli hostages earlier this month. She has called for an immediate end to hostilities on all fronts in the ongoing conflict in southern Israel.
The terror attack on October 7, 2023, led by Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups, resulted in the abduction of approximately 250 Israelis and foreign nationals. Tragically, the attack claimed over 1,250 lives, including women and children. To date, ninety-seven hostages remain unaccounted for and are presumed to be held in Gaza, which has been under intense Israeli military offensive since the attacks.
In a statement released to the press, Ms. Edwards expressed her deep concern over the escalating threats to the hostages’ lives and well-being as time passes. She emphasized the urgent need for action to secure their release and bring an end to the conflict. The Special Rapporteur also voiced extreme distress over reports of female hostages being subjected to sexual violence.
Ms. Edwards stressed the importance of empathy for all those affected by the armed conflict, highlighting that human rights apply to everyone without exception. Following meetings with released hostages and families of those still missing, she reiterated the urgency of the situation.
The ongoing conflict in southern Israel was described by Ms. Edwards as devastating and deeply painful, with tens of thousands of lives lost. She called for a thorough, independent, and impartial investigation into international crimes committed by all parties involved. Ms. Edwards emphasized the need for accountability, urging all UN Member States to work towards ending the suffering of Palestinians and Israelis without delay.
As the Special Rapporteur on Torture, Ms. Edwards is responsible for monitoring and reporting on instances of torture and other forms of cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment worldwide. She has been engaged in various aspects of the conflict, including addressing allegations of torture and mistreatment of detained Palestinians by Israeli authorities. Ms. Edwards called for the humane and dignified treatment of detainees and the prompt release of those held arbitrarily.
Ms. Edwards, who assumed the role in July 2022, serves as an independent expert within the UN system. She does not receive a salary for her work and operates in her individual capacity. Her primary focus is to advocate for the protection of human rights and the prevention of torture in all its forms.
The situation in southern Israel remains dire, with the fate of the remaining hostages uncertain. Ms. Edwards continues to call for immediate action to secure their release and bring an end to the conflict that has ravaged the region. As the international community grapples with the complexities of the conflict, the need for a peaceful resolution and respect for human rights remains paramount.
