UN Report Accuses Israel of Systematic Gender-Based Violence and Widespread Destruction in Gaza War

Israel Accused of Systematic Gender-Based Violence in Gaza War

A United Nations-backed human rights report has accused Israel of "the systematic use of sexual, reproductive and other gender-based violence" during its war with Hamas in the Gaza Strip. The report, released by the Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, is one of the most extensive of its kind and documents allegations and evidence of crimes committed during the conflict.

The report details the widespread destruction of Gaza, the use of heavy explosives in civilian areas, and Israeli attacks on hospitals and health facilities. It concludes that these actions led to "disproportionate violence against women and children." The commission also documented a range of violations perpetrated against Palestinian women, men, girls, and boys, including rape and sexual violence against Palestinian detainees by Israeli security forces.

Israel has denied any systematic abuse of prisoners and claims to take action when violations occur. However, the commission's findings could be used by prosecutors at the International Criminal Court or in other jurisdictions to bring justice to victims and their families.

The report also accuses Israel of carrying out "genocidal acts through the systematic destruction of sexual and reproductive health care facilities." While the commission stops short of formally accusing Israel of genocide, it concludes that Israel's actions have undermined Palestinians' right to self-determination.

Israel has rejected the report's allegations, accusing the commission of relying on "second-hand, single, uncorroborated sources." The country has refused to cooperate with the commission since its establishment in 2021, claiming bias on the part of the investigative team and the council.

The report's release has prompted calls for international action against Israel. Hamas has urged international courts to prosecute Israel's leaders, while the International Criminal Court has already issued arrest warrants for both Prime Minister Netanyahu and his former defense minister for alleged war crimes.

The war began when Hamas-led militants attacked southern Israel on October 7, 2023, killing approximately 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and taking 251 hostages. Israel's retaliatory offensive has resulted in the deaths of over 48,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza's Health Ministry.

The commission's report is a significant step towards documenting and investigating alleged human rights violations committed during the conflict. It remains to be seen whether the report will lead to concrete action against Israel or contribute to a resolution of the ongoing conflict.