The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women is observed annually on November 25. Yesterday, in the shadow of events leading to the Swords of Iron war, Rambam Health Care Campus (Rambam) in Haifa, Israel, marked the day.
Display symbolizing the women victimized by Hamas, with sign declaring, "We believe you." Photography: RHCC.
Since the outbreak of the Swords of Iron war, reported incidents of violence against women have decreased by nearly thirty percent. However, there are concerns that the rate will increase once the war is over. Sagit Zeevi, Rambam’s director of social service and head of gender equality at the hospital points out, “Surprisingly, since the beginning of 2023, the national hotline received fewer calls regarding domestic violence, a decrease of about 10% compared to the same period last year. A similar decrease has also been noted at Rambam, where fewer female victims of violence came for treatment. According to experts, this trend does not reflect a happy forecast despite the decline in numbers.”
“Although calls relating to domestic violence have declined, there has been an increase in calls relating to other issues such as food and social assistance and equipment for evacuated families,” Zeevi explains. “Professionals from Israel’s Ministry of Health believe this decline in calls stems from fear of taking significant steps during wartime. Women’s sense of security and economic uncertainty makes them think twice before contacting professional bodies for help, and the country is focused on a different kind of survival. Based on lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic, tensions now building up may erupt after the war and there could be an increase in both violent incidents and reports from victims of violence. We all must do everything possible to prevent this escalation.”
Since the war began, there have been concerns about the increase in cases of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among residents who were at the frontlines of the conflict and in the affected areas. Furthermore, requests from male citizens to obtain a weapons license have increased. Zeevi emphasizes, “In the context of violent men, this is worrisome. Women knowing of a violent man who has applied for a weapons license are asked to contact the 118 hotline or the social services department of their local municipality.”
When the United Nations (UN) established this international day, they called upon the governments of the world to raise public awareness of the issue of violence against women in society. Furthermore, the UN defines sexual violence in wartime as a crime against humanity. According to their website, “Violence against women and girls remains one of the most prevalent and pervasive human rights violations in the world. Globally, an estimated 736 million women — almost one in three — have been subjected to physical and/or sexual intimate partner violence, non-partner sexual violence, or both, at least once in their life.”
Following the events of October 7, and the subsequent aftermath, harrowing testimonies have emerged detailing brutal instances of sexual and gender-based violence, as well as inexplicable acts perpetrated against innocent men, women, children, and the elderly. Particularly notable is the stark silence from the UN and its affiliated bodies, whose stated purpose is to advocate for victims of such violence.
As it does every year, Rambam marked the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. Hospital social workers set up information booths in the hospital’s main lobby in the Sammy Ofer Tower and sold items to raise funds for crisis centers for victims of sexual assault in the Haifa area.
Rambam’s social service team at the information and donation boothdedicated to the victims of October 7.Photography: RHCC
In times of peace and now in this time of conflict, we have been witnessing brutal sexual and gender-based violence against women. Hence, a table covered with reddened streaks and dried flowers was on display with a bloodied wedding dress to the side. A sign referring to the victims of the Hamas terrorists was prominently displayed with the inscription: “We believe you.”
Zeevi went on to say, “Women’s organizations around the world headed by the UN Women’s Organization, have been silent and even deny the testimonies of the October 7th victims. In doing so, they are blatantly violating their legal and moral obligations. Today, we stand behind all victims of violence, wherever they are, embracing and assisting them with all the tools at our disposal. We promise to do all in our power to prevent this from happening to them again. As caregivers, we must remember that women often experience feelings of guilt and shame. Shame kills – recognition can save lives.”
Support Services for Victims of Violence
Are you living with violence in the home? Here are a few support services available to you as a resident of Israel.
Helplines via the Ministry of Social Affairs and Defense: For general assistance, call 118; for male victims of violence, call 1218; make a silent call for help by sending an SMS to 050-2270118.
The Safe and Sound app: Victims of domestic violence can call for help in real-time. A code triggers an alarm or a personal contact of the victim’s choice.
Shelters and Transitional Apartments: The Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs operates shelters for women and their children.
Centers for the Prevention and Treatment of Domestic Violence: These centers aid both men and women, help assess danger levels, and provide assistance with personal protection, treatment, and rehabilitation.
Counseling and Social Assistance: Programs are available throughout the country to strengthen self-confidence and self-image, and to help women improve sources of income so they don’t need to live with the offending party.
Many resources are also available via The Association of Rape Crisis Centers in Israel, including an English website.
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