UN Human Rights Office accuses Israel of war crimes in Gaza
Photo: Israel accused of killings and blocking aid to Gaza (Getty Images).
The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights condemned Israel for killing Palestinians and blocking aid to Gaza, labeling these actions as war crimes, according to Al Jazeera.
Israeli forces have killed at least 58 Palestinians, including 10 children and three women, near Israel’s designated no-go zones since the ceasefire. The UN Human Rights Office stated that many victims were attacked while trying to check on their homes.
“Targeting Palestinians who are not actively participating in hostilities is a war crime regardless of the Israeli-imposed movement restrictions,” the agency said.
Additionally, Israel’s blockade, now in its seventh day, has caused a sharp rise in prices and raised concerns about a return to bombings and famine. The blockade also began after health authorities reported that at least eight infants had died from cold in recent weeks.
“As the occupying power, Israel has a legal obligation to ensure the provision of the necessities of life for Palestinians living under its control,” the OHCHR said. “Any denial of the entry of the necessities of life for civilians may amount to collective punishment. The use of hunger and starvation as a weapon of war is a war crime.”
Background
On March 2, the Israeli government decided to close border crossings with Gaza and halt humanitarian aid deliveries. The decision came after Hamas rejected a US-proposed plan for a temporary ceasefire.
