Israel Cuts Ties With UN Chief Over Sexual Violence Blacklist

Israeli Ambassador Danny Danon cut ties with the office of Secretary-General António Guterres on June 6 after the United Nations blacklisted Israel and Russia for sexual violence in conflict. The UN verified the abuse of at least 31 Palestinians between 2023 and 2025, including rape and targeted genital violence.

This diplomatic rupture coincides with international condemnation over the treatment of activists from the Global Sumud Flotilla, who attempted to break the Gaza naval blockade. Activists from Italy, France, Spain, Germany, and Belgium alleged they suffered rape, beatings, and humiliation while in detention. The outcry intensified after National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir posted a video taunting restrained detainees.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the actions of Ben-Gvir as inconsistent with Israeli values. Despite the global outcry, the Israeli Prison Service and military officials have rejected the allegations of abuse against flotilla participants.