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UN Special Committee finds Israel’s warfare methods in Gaza consistent with genocide

UN Special Committee finds Israel’s warfare methods in Gaza consistent with genocide
Photo by Abdulqader Sabbah/Anadolu

Report by OHCHR | 14-11-2024

The recent report by the UN Special Committee on Israeli practices in Gaza delivers a powerful indictment of Israel's ongoing military actions, characterizing them as consistent with genocidal tactics. The report, which covers developments from October 2023 to July 2024, presents extensive evidence of severe humanitarian and environmental impacts resulting from Israel's blockade, bombardment, and restrictions on essential supplies in Gaza.

  • Genocide Allegations: The report finds Israel's military actions in Gaza consistent with genocide, citing intentional deprivation of essential resources (food, water, fuel) to Palestinians.
  • Obstruction of Aid: The Committee highlights Israel's systematic obstruction of humanitarian aid, using lifesaving supplies as tools for political and military leverage.
  • Siege and Collective Punishment: The ongoing siege, targeting of civilians, and obstruction of aid are described as causing starvation and severe suffering, amounting to collective punishment.
  • Environmental and Health Crisis: Massive bombings have destroyed Gaza's infrastructure, leading to water, sanitation, and environmental disasters, with potential long-term health impacts.
  • AI-Enhanced Targeting Concerns: Israel’s use of AI targeting with minimal oversight has allegedly increased civilian casualties, especially among women and children.
  • Media Censorship and Misinformation: Escalating censorship, targeting of journalists, and suppression of “pro-Palestinian” content on social media are noted as efforts to control information flow and undermine humanitarian efforts.
  • International Legal Accountability: The report calls for global action to enforce international law, stressing that failure to hold Israel accountable could weaken the global legal system.

Full report can be found here.