UN Report Accuses Israel and Palestinian Groups of Human Rights Violations
A new report from the UN Commission of Inquiry for the Palestinian Territories has made serious allegations against both Israel and armed Palestinian groups regarding human rights violations in the ongoing conflict. The report, which is set to be presented to the UN General Assembly on October 30, details deliberate attacks on Gaza’s health system, torture of detainees, and other serious abuses.
Led by former UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Navi Pillay, the commission asserts that Israeli forces have carried out a campaign of systematic and intentional attacks on medical personnel and health facilities over the past year. Pillay described these actions as potential war crimes and crimes against humanity, specifically citing the detrimental effects on Gaza's civilian population and health services.
"Israel must immediately stop this senseless destruction of health facilities that threatens the right to health," Pillay stated in a press release, emphasizing the long-term consequences this could have on the affected population. The report highlights that medical staff have been killed, tortured, and targeted while ambulances were attacked and movement permits for patients have been restricted.
Furthermore, the report reveals a shocking account of how pediatric and neonatal care facilities have been impacted, posing severe risks to the lives of countless children in Gaza. In addition, it outlines violations against women's rights, specifically mentioning the attacks on sexual and reproductive health units.
Another significant section of the report focuses on the treatment of detainees and hostages, in which both Israel and armed Palestinian groups are implicated in serious human rights abuse. Around thousands of Palestinian detainees in Israeli custody have reportedly experienced systemic abuses that amount to war crimes. Many detainees, including minors, suffer from sexual violence, physical abuse, and degradation aimed at extracting information. The report suggests that such treatment occurs under directives from Israeli officials, including National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, whose rhetoric has allegedly fueled a culture of violence.
On the other side, the report also censures the treatment of Israeli and foreign hostages held by Hamas and other Palestinian factions, noting that they have endured physical and sexual violence, isolation, threats, and insufficient access to essential needs like food and water. Some hostages have even been compelled to participate in videos intended to psychologically torment their families. The commission indicates that these actions could also be classified as war crimes and crimes against humanity.
In light of these serious allegations, the report calls for immediate action to address the ongoing violations and protect the rights of the affected populations. The growing documentation of such abuses places a spotlight on the urgent need for accountability and dialogue in pursuit of peace.
Related Sources: