UN Commission Accuses Israel of Genocide in Gaza, Israel Rejects Findings
A United Nations commission of inquiry has accused Israel of committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, citing evidence of widespread civilian deaths, destruction, and conditions of life aimed at eradicating the population.
The latest report, released by the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, says there are reasonable grounds to conclude that Israel committed four of the five genocidal acts defined under the 1948 Genocide Convention. These include killing members of the group, causing serious bodily and mental harm, deliberately inflicting destructive living conditions, and preventing births.
The panel, chaired by former UN human rights chief Navi Pillay, points to statements from Israeli leaders and the pattern of military operations as proof of “genocidal intent.” It accuses President Isaac Herzog, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant of inciting genocide.
According to the commission, Israeli airstrikes and ground operations have killed tens of thousands of Palestinians, devastated homes, schools, and hospitals, blocked access to essential aid, and even destroyed Gaza’s main fertility clinic, eliminating thousands of embryos and reproductive samples.
Israel has categorically rejected the findings, calling the report “distorted and false.” Its foreign ministry said the commission relied on “Hamas propaganda” and argued that Hamas, not Israel, attempted genocide by killing 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages during its October 7, 2023, assault.
The war, launched by Israel in response to that attack, has left more than 64,900 Palestinians dead, according to Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry. Over 90% of homes have been destroyed or damaged, while UN-backed experts have declared a famine in Gaza City.
The commission says Israel’s actions are attributable to the state itself, which “bears responsibility for the commission of genocide and the failure to prevent and punish genocide.” It also reminded all other countries of their obligation under international law to act to prevent genocide, warning that inaction could make them complicit.
Meanwhile, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) continues hearings in a separate case filed by South Africa accusing Israel of genocide. Israel insists the allegations are “baseless” and says its military campaign targets Hamas, not civilians.
