A report from a panel of independent experts commissioned by the United Nations’ Human Rights Council has found that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza. Released on Tuesday, the report urges the international community to intervene to halt these actions and hold those responsible accountable. This follows ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, which has resulted in significant civilian casualties, including tens of thousands of deaths.
The three-member Commission of Inquiry concluded that Israel has committed four out of five “genocidal acts” as defined by the 1948 Genocide Convention, highlighting Israel’s actions post the October 7 attacks by Hamas. The chair of the commission, Navi Pillay, stated that there is a clear intent to destroy the Palestinian population in Gaza, pointing to statements from high-ranking Israeli officials as incitement to genocide.
Israel has categorically denied these allegations, labelling the report as “distorted and false.” The Israeli government argues that it faces bias from the commission and the Human Rights Council, which they claim undermines its legitimacy. The commission, however, noted its findings could inform legal actions at bodies such as the International Criminal Court.
The report is seen as a culmination of the panel’s efforts, as all three members announced their resignation in July, citing the need for change. Despite the poor reception from Israel, the commission maintains that it does not represent the UN’s broader stance but operates under its auspices.
Furthermore, the current escalating violence, including Israel’s expanded military operations in Gaza City, continues to generate significant concern among nations. As Israel calls for residents in Gaza City to evacuate amid heavy strikes expected to target Hamas infrastructure, many civilians find themselves trapped with limited means to escape.
In the midst of these developments, families of hostages taken by Hamas have implored Prime Minister Netanyahu to reconsider military actions, fearing for their loved ones’ safety. In contrast, both Israeli officials and U.S. authorities stress the elimination of Hamas as a crucial step toward ending hostilities. The situation remains dire, with humanitarian concerns mounting as international calls for action grow louder, stating that ignoring signs of genocide amounts to complicity.