In a shocking development, recently released hostage Amit Soussana has bravely come forward with a harrowing account of sexual violence and physical abuse she endured during her captivity by the Palestinian Islamist group, Hamas. Soussana's chilling testimony marks the first time a released hostage has provided a direct account of the sexual atrocities committed by the group.

On October 7, 2023, Soussana was kidnapped by seven Hamas terrorists in a deadly attack. She garnered international attention after a video surfaced of her valiantly fighting off her captors before being taken to Gaza, where she remained imprisoned for 54 agonizing days.

Speaking to the New York Times in an eight-hour interview, Soussana recalled the disturbing details of her ordeal. She described being chained to a bed in a child's bedroom, with a Hamas terrorist named Muhammad as her guard. Soussana revealed that Muhammad would frequently grope her, lifting up her shirt against her will. He also made incessant inquiries about her menstrual cycle, even forcing her to perform a sexual act on him.

One particularly horrifying incident occurred on October 24, when Muhammad unlocked the chain from Soussana's ankle to allow her to wash herself. However, he returned with a gun, threatening her and subjecting her to further physical abuse. Soussana also mentioned that the room she was held captive in was adorned with SpongeBob Squarepants images.

In a different location, Soussana was handed over to another captor named Amir. Upon her arrival, the Hamas terrorists tightly bound her head with a pink shirt, forced her to the ground, handcuffed her, and assaulted her with the butt of a gun. They then suspended her between two couches, causing excruciating pain. While suspended, Soussana endured additional beatings and kicks, particularly targeting the soles of her feet. Eventually, she was taken to a new bedroom and threatened with death unless she provided information sought by her captors within 40 minutes.

Hamas spokesperson Basem Naim has denied Soussana's allegations, filing a lengthy response questioning the veracity of her account and demanding an investigation. He argued that such actions would go against Hamas's religious beliefs, emphasizing their respect for the human body.

This is not the first instance of sexual violence alleged against Hamas. A special report by UN Secretary-General's Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict, Pramila Patten, revealed clear and compelling evidence of sexual violence, including rape and sexualized torture, perpetrated against hostages. However, such allegations have faced pushback and denial on social media.

It is important to note that the time it takes for victims to come forward with their testimonies of sexual crimes should not discount the severity of their experiences. Sexual crimes can often take years to be brought to light, and those victimized by Hamas may still be held captive or have tragically lost their lives.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog voiced his support for Soussana and condemned Hamas's brutal acts. He called for the immediate return of all hostages and urged the world to stand with the victims in denouncing such heinous crimes.

The testimonies provided by released hostage Amit Soussana serves as a chilling reminder of the ongoing violence and abuse perpetrated by Hamas. It is imperative that these allegations be thoroughly investigated and that justice be served for all victims.