The United Nations’ Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory has accused both Israeli authorities and Palestinian armed groups, including Hamas, of committing war crimes during the conflict that began on October 7, 2023. In its report presented on June 19, 2024, the Commission detailed violations by both sides.
Findings Against Israeli Authorities:
War Crimes: The Commission concluded that Israeli forces were responsible for war crimes, including:
Starvation as a method of warfare
Willful killing
Intentionally directing attacks against civilians and civilian objects
Forcible transfer
Sexual violence
Torture and inhuman or cruel treatment
Arbitrary detention
Outrages upon personal dignity
Crimes Against Humanity: The report also found that Israeli actions amounted to crimes against humanity, including:
Extermination of Palestinians
Gender persecution targeting Palestinian men and boys
Findings Against Palestinian Armed Groups:
War Crimes: The Commission reported that Hamas and six other Palestinian armed groups committed war crimes, such as:
Intentionally directing attacks against civilians
Murder or willful killing
Torture and inhuman or cruel treatment
Destroying or seizing the property of an adversary
Outrages upon personal dignity
Taking hostages, including children
The Commission has submitted approximately 7,000 pieces of evidence to the International Criminal Court related to these alleged crimes.
In response to these findings, Israel has refuted the accusations, asserting that its military actions were in self-defense against attacks from Hamas. Israeli officials have criticized the Commission’s report as biased and unfounded. Conversely, Palestinian authorities have condemned the actions of Israeli forces, highlighting the significant civilian casualties and destruction in Gaza.
The international community remains deeply concerned about the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with various nations and organizations urging both parties to adhere to international law and protect civilian lives.
