Unprecedented Tensions in New York Over Israel’s Inclusion in UN Sexual Violence Blacklist
A special United Nations meeting in New York on the occasion of the “International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict” escalated into a heated verbal exchange between Pramila Patten, the UN Special Representative on Children and Armed Conflict, and Israel’s ambassador. The tension intensified following Israel’s recent inclusion on the UN blacklist as a perpetrator of sexual violence.
Danny Danon, Israel’s ambassador to the UN, demanded Patten’s resignation during the meeting; she is the UN official whose report first enabled Israel’s inclusion on the list. Danon accused Patten of bias against Israel and claimed that the UN Secretary-General intentionally targeted Israel.
Midway through Danon’s remarks, Vanessa Fraser, a UN official, interrupted and, citing meeting protocol, asked him to refrain from personal attacks. Fraser emphasized that “confirmed evidence” of child abuse underpinned the UN’s report.
However, the Israeli ambassador responded sharply, telling the UN official to remain silent. He added that Israel is a UN member state and UN staff should not take a position against government representatives.
Israel’s addition to the sexual violence blacklist was announced about three weeks ago, triggering a strong reaction from Israeli officials, with their ambassador at that time announcing a suspension of cooperation with the UN Secretary-General. The list is prepared by the UN to monitor serious human rights violations during armed conflicts, and the inclusion of countries or groups usually carries significant political and diplomatic consequences.
