A United Nations inquiry has reported that both Israeli forces and Palestinian militants committed war crimes during the initial phases of the Israel-Hamas conflict, which began with an attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023. The inquiry, led by Navi Pillay for the UN-backed Human Rights Council, detailed various alleged rights violations up to the end of 2023, labeling many acts as crimes against humanity.
The report documents incidents of forced starvation, murder, and intentional attacks on civilians by Israeli forces. It also cites deliberate killings, mistreatment of civilians, and hostage-takings by Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups. Findings include severe sexual and gender-based violence attributed to both Israeli authorities and Palestinian militants. The panel described the prevalence of such violence by Israeli forces as indicative of potential operating procedures.
Israel has rejected the findings and accused the inquiry of bias, reiterating claims of anti-Israel discrimination by UN bodies. The Israeli diplomatic mission in Geneva criticized the report, particularly its implications about acts of sexual violence.
This investigation comes amid ongoing conflict and escalating tensions, including recent large-scale rocket attacks by Hezbollah from Lebanon into northern Israel. The conflict has seen significant casualties, with Gaza health authorities reporting over 37,000 deaths and widespread displacement in response to Israel's retaliatory actions following the initial Hamas assault.
Efforts at mediation continue, with a U.S.-backed ceasefire and hostage exchange proposal under negotiation. Talks facilitated by mediators from Qatar and Egypt are ongoing, despite skepticism and differing responses from the involved parties.
These developments underscore the persistent and multifaceted nature of the conflict, with no immediate resolution in sight. The UN and international actors remain engaged in attempts to de-escalate the situation and address the humanitarian crisis.