The United Nations has issued a stark condemnation of Israel’s military tactics in Gaza, suggesting possible war crimes have been committed during its offensive. Investigations into six specific Israeli attacks between October 9 and December 2, 2023, which led to the deaths of at least 218 individuals, have brought to light the use of heavy precision-guided munitions, such as GBU-31, GBU-32, and GBU-39, in civilian-populated areas. These findings have prompted the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, to demand transparent and independent inquiries into these incidents.The UN’s report suggests that Israel’s military actions have systematically violated international humanitarian law’s fundamental principles of distinction, proportionality, and precaution. The extensive use of heavy bombs in residential zones, schools, refugee camps, and markets has caused widespread destruction and a high number of civilian casualties, raising doubts about Israel’s commitment to minimizing collateral damage during its attacks. The total casualties since the beginning of the offensive on October 7, 2023, are reported to be over 37,000 deaths, with a significant number of them being civilians.Amidst these troubling developments, tensions have also escalated at the Israel-Lebanon border, further complicating the regional security landscape. The international community, including the United Nations, continues to voice concerns over the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza, where the delivery of aid has been severely hampered.
Key points
- The UN has accused Israel of potential war crimes in its Gaza offensive, citing the use of heavy bombs in civilian areas and a high number of civilian casualties.
- Investigations into six specific bombings between October 9 and December 2, 2023, indicate systematic violations of international humanitarian law by Israel.
- The conflict has resulted in over 37,000 deaths, with the UN calling for credible investigations and accountability for the actions taken.
