Identity/Crisis

Believe Israeli Women

Dec 19, 2023

Law professor Cochav Elkayam-Levy discusses her work to compile a comprehensive accounting of gender-based violence committed by Hamas. The podcast explores the contradictory reactions to allegations against Hamas, the struggle for believability faced by Israeli feminist scholars, and the importance of solidarity and healing in the face of shared trauma. It also addresses the challenges of addressing allegations of sexual violence in Israel and emphasizes the need for support and new coalitions in the pursuit of human rights.

39:44

Episode guests

Cochav Elkayam-Levy

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

The speaker reflects on the paradox of how sexual assault is discussed, capturing the horror of sexual violence and the contrast in beliefs about the allegations connected to the Hamas attack on Israel.

The international community's lack of recognition and response to the atrocities committed by Hamas creates fertile ground for denial campaigns and anti-Semitism, necessitating the need for the international community to protect human rights and rise to the challenge.

Deep dives

The Paradox of Discussing Sexual Assault

The speaker observes that there is a paradox in how sexual assault is discussed, where it is both shocking and not surprising. This paradox captures the horror of sexual violence. The speaker mentions that there were allegations of sexual violence connected to the Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023. The speaker recalls the confusion about whether the violence was perpetrated by Hamas terrorists or others. Images circulated online suggesting sexual assault and other stories circulated about rampant cases of assault. The speaker reflects on their personal shock and belief in every accusation, contrasting with others who cast doubt on the accusations.

Introduction

2min

Contrasting Reactions to Allegations and Accusations

22min

The Identity Crisis of Israeli Feminist Scholars and the Struggle for Believability

2min

Reflections on Solidarity, Healing, and Shared Trauma

5min

Addressing the Slander and Trauma of Allegations

5min

Fostering Support, Solidarity, and New Coalitions

3min

Today’s episode involves discussion of sexual assault and other violent themes connected to the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7. Listener discretion is advised.

In the aftermath of Hamas’s heinous televised attack, Cochav Elkayam-Levy, law professor and expert on international law, human rights, and feminist theory, became the Chair of Israel’s Civil Commission on October 7 Crimes by Hamas Against Women and Children. One week after meeting with White House officials, she spoke with Yehuda Kurtzer about her work to compile a comprehensive accounting of gender-based violence committed by Hamas and the heartbreaking struggle for recognition that she is facing in the international arena.

Cochav Elkayam-Levy speaking before the UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

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