UN Report Highlights Grave Violations in Israel and Gaza
Justice Demanded for International Law Violations
The United Nations Human Rights Office has released a report detailing the severe situation in Israel and Gaza since October 7, 2023. The report emphasizes the need for justice regarding the significant breaches of international law.
Impact on Civilians
The UN Human Rights Office has been verifying the identities of those killed in Gaza due to strikes and shelling. It found that nearly 70% of the fatalities were children and women, indicating a systematic violation of international humanitarian law principles, such as distinction and proportionality. The most affected age groups are children aged 0-4, 5-9, and 10-14 years old.
Approximately 80% of the verified deaths occurred in residential areas, with 44% being children and 26% women. The report highlights an apparent disregard for civilian lives and the impact of warfare methods.
Concerns Over Israeli Defence Forces
Volker Turk, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, expressed concerns about the actions of the Israeli Defence Forces, particularly regarding attacks on hospitals and journalists. The report also mentions the alleged use of white phosphorus munitions.
States are urged to prevent atrocity crimes and support accountability mechanisms like the International Criminal Court. They are also encouraged to exercise universal jurisdiction to investigate and prosecute international law crimes in national courts.
Background of the Conflict
On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched a significant attack on Israel, resulting in over 1,200 deaths and more than 250 hostages. In response, Israel initiated a counteroffensive against Hamas in Gaza, reportedly causing over 45,000 Palestinian deaths. The rising civilian casualties have led to global calls for a ceasefire.
Doubts Revealed
UN -: The UN, or United Nations, is a group of countries that work together to solve big problems in the world, like keeping peace and helping people in need.
Israel and Gaza -: Israel is a country in the Middle East, and Gaza is a small area next to it where many Palestinians live. There has been a long history of conflict between the two.
October 7, 2023 -: This date marks the beginning of a recent conflict between Israel and Gaza, which started with an attack by Hamas on Israel.
Grave violations -: Grave violations mean very serious actions that break important rules or laws, especially those meant to protect people during conflicts.
International law -: International law is a set of rules that countries agree to follow to ensure peace and fairness in the world, especially during wars.
Humanitarian principles -: Humanitarian principles are rules that aim to protect people, especially civilians, during conflicts and ensure they get help and care.
Israeli Defence Forces -: The Israeli Defence Forces, or IDF, are the military forces of Israel, responsible for defending the country and its people.
Hamas -: Hamas is a group that controls Gaza and has been in conflict with Israel for many years. They are known for using violence to achieve their goals.