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A United Nations commission of inquiry has declared that Israel has committed acts of genocide against the Palestinian population in Gaza.

The report show there are reasonable grounds to conclude that multiple of the defined violations under international law have been committed starting from the outbreak of the war with militant groups in recent months.

Report Highlights

• Targeting civilians of the group
• Inflicting physical and psychological trauma
• Intentionally creating conditions calculated to destroy the community
• Preventing births through destruction of medical facilities

The commission references statements by Israeli leaders and the conduct of Israeli forces as evidence of destructive aims.

"Genocidal intent was the clear conclusion from the pattern of state forces," the document asserts.

Official Denial

Israel has strongly denied the report, describing it as "distorted and false".

A spokesperson accused the UN experts of serving as "Hamas proxies" and relying on "misinformation laundered and repeated by others".

Israeli officials maintain that their actions are aimed at dismantling Hamas and not targeting non-combatants.

Context

Hostilities began after an unprecedented attack on southern Israel by militants on 7 October 2023, during which 1,200 people were murdered and 251 were captured.

Since then, Israeli attacks have caused the loss of over 64,000 of people in Gaza, according to health authorities.

Situation in Gaza

• The majority of the residents has been forced to flee
• Over 90% of housing are damaged or destroyed
• Healthcare and sanitation systems have collapsed
• Severe food shortages has been declared in parts of Gaza

International Law

The commission states that nations worldwide have an obligation to stop and penalize genocide, adding that inaction could amount to involvement.

At the same time, the International Court of Justice is reviewing a complaint brought by a member state that charges Israel of genocidal actions.