Note: This story includes serious allegations of sexual assault.
Representative Josh Gottheimer from New Jersey has expressed strong disapproval of a recent New York Times article claiming that Palestinian prisoners of war have suffered systematic sexual violence, including dogs being trained for attack. This piece, authored by columnist Nicholas Kristof, gained widespread attention after 14 individuals shared experiences of being “sexually assaulted by Israeli settlers and members of security forces.” The allegations vary widely, touching on everything from genital abuse to penetrative acts involving dogs.
“Oh my god, @nytimes!” Gottheimer exclaimed on X. “Nick Kristoff highlights verified Hamas sources and propaganda while the NYT overlooks the well-documented systematic sexual violence and mutilation committed by Hamas on October 7th, as noted in a new Citizens Commission report.”
The Democrat went on to express that the Times should uphold a higher standard, particularly regarding grave allegations like these, adding, “It’s as if the NYT is on Hamas’ payroll.”
The New York Times has not yet responded to requests for commentary from Fox News Digital.
This report has prompted intense backlash, notably from the Israeli government, which described it as “one of the worst blood libels in the history of modern journalism.”
The Israeli Foreign Ministry criticized Kristof’s claims as a distortion of reality, stating, “With an unfathomable reversal of reality and an endless stream of baseless lies, Kristof is turning the victim into a defendant. Israel, which has been a victim of horrific sexual crimes perpetrated by Hamas since October 7, is portrayed as the guilty party.” They further asserted that this report is part of a coordinated anti-Israel campaign.
Former Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, who was mentioned in Kristof’s article, argued that he didn’t verify the claims, which included serious accusations against Israeli authorities. “I have no knowledge to support these assertions,” he said, suggesting that his quotes were misrepresented.
In light of the criticism, the Times has defended Kristof, noting his extensive background and recognition in reporting on these sensitive issues. A spokesman for the Times highlighted Kristof’s commitment to obtaining firsthand accounts and independent research on the subject of sexual assault in conflict zones, emphasizing that he accurately presented Olmert’s views within the proper context.
