Tensions Rise in U.N. Meeting over Israel’s Inclusion on Sexual Violence Blacklist

In a heated U.N. meeting, Israeli Ambassador Danny Danon and Vanessa Frazier, the U.N. Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict, engaged in a tense verbal exchange over Israel’s inclusion on a sexual violence blacklist. The meeting marked the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict and addressed concerns about a report authored by Frazier that placed Israeli entities on the list.

During the meeting, Danon accused Frazier of yielding to pressure and the U.N. Secretary-General’s focus on Israel. He insisted on speaking, demanding that Frazier listen quietly. Danon accused her of being part of a campaign targeting Israel. The report in question listed Israeli organizations among those suspected of involvement in sexual violence, including the Israel Defense Forces, Israel Prison Services, and the country’s border police Counter Terrorism Unit.

Danon had previously criticized the U.N.’s decision to list Israel alongside groups like Hamas, ISIS, and Boko Haram. He called this decision a stain on the legacy of U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres. Danon’s office announced a freeze in relations with Guterres’ office following the blacklist inclusion.

Israel has been placed on a blacklist alongside Hamas, ISIS, and Boko Haram. This is a moral disgrace that will be remembered as one of the darkest stains on António Guterres’ legacy.

Danon further demanded the resignation of Pramila Patten, the U.N. Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict, criticizing her for not attending the meeting. He rebuked Frazier’s attempt to defend Patten and emphasized that U.N. representatives should respect U.N. rules and member states.

Danon argued that the U.N. did not independently review the evidence against Israel and accused Patten of endorsing a politically motivated campaign. He questioned Patten’s responsibilities and urged her resignation.

You knew Israel had cooperated. You knew you had not reviewed the evidence yourself. Yet you chose to stand behind this falsehood.

Danon’s office plans to file a formal complaint regarding Frazier’s interruptions during the meeting, emphasizing their dissatisfaction with the handling of the situation.