A United Nations Commission of Inquiry (COI) has accused Israel of committing genocide in Gaza, alleging a systematic campaign to "destroy the Palestinian group" through mass killings, forced displacement, and deliberate deprivation of essential resources. The report, released Tuesday, holds Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other senior officials responsible for inciting violence and failing to curb atrocities.
Navi Pillay, chair of the COI and a former International Criminal Court judge, stated: "The responsibility lies with Israeli authorities at the highest echelons who have orchestrated a genocidal campaign." The findings cite over 65,000 Palestinian deaths since October 2023, widespread famine, and the displacement of 85% of Gaza's population.
The commission identified four of five genocidal acts defined by the 1948 Genocide Convention, including mass killings, infliction of severe physical/mental harm, creation of unlivable conditions, and measures to prevent births. Investigators highlighted Israeli leaders' public statements referencing biblical "holy war" narratives as evidence of intent.
Israel rejected the report as "distorted and false," while the UN's aid chief separately warned of worsening humanitarian conditions. The findings come amid ongoing International Court of Justice proceedings and ICC arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant over alleged war crimes.
Pillay urged global action: "The international community's silence amounts to complicity." The report adds pressure on Western allies supporting Israel, particularly after recent U.S. sanctions against ICC officials investigating the conflict.
