United Nations human rights experts have raised grave concerns over Israel’s military actions in Gaza, calling for accountability in light of alleged violations of international law. In a joint statement, 11 UN rights experts accused Israel of deliberately inflicting “maximum suffering” on Palestinian civilians, emphasizing the need for urgent investigations into the actions taken during the ongoing conflict.

The experts pointed out that international humanitarian law is designed to protect civilians and limit the methods and means of warfare. However, they accused Israel of consistently defying these universal rules, causing widespread suffering among civilians in the occupied Palestinian territory and beyond.

The Human Toll In Gaza

The ongoing conflict, triggered by a Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, has resulted in staggering casualties. While 1,208 Israelis, mostly civilians, were killed during the initial attack, the retaliatory campaign by Israel has claimed over 45,500 lives in Gaza, according to figures provided by Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry. The UN considers these figures reliable, highlighting the disproportionate impact on civilians.

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The UN experts accused Israel of committing crimes against humanity, including murder, torture, sexual violence, and forced displacement. They also cited alleged war crimes, such as indiscriminate attacks on civilians, the use of starvation as a weapon of war, and collective punishment.

Civilians As Protected Persons

The experts emphasized that under international law, civilians are considered protected persons and cannot be treated as military objectives. Acts aimed at their destruction, whether in whole or in part, are considered genocidal. They urged for independent and thorough investigations into the alleged serious violations.

“Israel’s continued impunity sends a dangerous message,” the experts stated. “Israel and its leaders must be held accountable.”

Focus On Northern Gaza

Since October 6, 2023, Israeli military operations in Gaza have concentrated on the northern region. Israeli officials claim the campaign is intended to prevent Hamas from regrouping, but UN experts have raised alarms about the displacement of the local population.

“This siege, coupled with expanding evacuation orders, appears intended to permanently displace the local population as a precursor to Gaza’s annexation,” the experts warned.

Calls For International Action

The UN experts, who include special rapporteurs on various human rights issues such as education, health, and food security, called on the international community to address the allegations and ensure accountability. Francesca Albanese, the special rapporteur on the rights situation in the occupied Palestinian territories, was among the signatories.

The experts stressed the need for urgent international action, highlighting the danger of allowing continued violations without consequences.

Israel’s Defense And Criticism Of UN Experts

Israel has dismissed the allegations, branding Francesca Albanese a political activist misusing her mandate. The Israeli government has called for her removal, accusing her of harboring bias against Israel.

Despite these criticisms, the UN experts remain steadfast in their call for accountability. They argue that Israel’s actions, coupled with the protection it receives from its allies, have perpetuated a cycle of impunity that undermines international law.

Conclusion

As the conflict continues to escalate, the calls for accountability grow louder. The UN experts’ statement underscores the urgent need for independent investigations and international intervention to protect civilian lives and uphold the principles of international law.