A United Nations commission of inquiry has stated that Israel has committed genocide against Palestinians in Gaza.
A recent report claims there are reasonable grounds to conclude that four of the five genocidal acts defined under international law have taken place since the commencement of hostilities with Hamas in 2023. These acts include killing members of the group, causing serious bodily and mental harm, deliberately inflicting conditions intended to destroy the group, and preventing births.
The report references statements from Israeli leaders as well as the actions of Israeli forces as evidence of a genocidal intent.
Israel's foreign ministry has categorically rejected the report, branding it as distorted and false. A spokesperson claimed that the experts involved in the commission are biased and accused them of relying on Hamas propaganda.
The ongoing conflict was ignited by a Hamas attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in approximately 1,200 Israeli deaths and over 251 hostages taken. In retaliation, Israeli airstrikes in Gaza have reportedly killed at least 64,905 since the conflict's outbreak, according to the Hamas-run health ministry in the territory.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza is dire, with reports indicating that over 90% of homes are damaged or destroyed, essential services have collapsed, and a famine has been declared by UN-backed experts.
The commission, established in 2021 by the UN Human Rights Council to investigate alleged violations of humanitarian law, is chaired by Navi Pillay, a former UN rights chief. The report alleges that the actions of Israeli forces and authorities amount to genocide, attributing responsibility to the state of Israel for failing to prevent and punish such acts.
The commission emphasized the urgent obligation of other countries under the Genocide Convention to prevent genocide and hold perpetrators accountable.
Israel has maintained that its actions are aimed solely at dismantling Hamas's military infrastructure, insisting they operate adherent to international law and strive to minimize civilian casualties. However, contrasting statements from Israeli leaders suggest a broader intent against the entire Gaza population.
Numerous international and Israeli organizations have echoed calls accusing Israel of committing genocidal acts against Palestinians in Gaza. The International Court of Justice is currently hearing a case that accuses Israel of genocide, further complicating the already tense situation.
