Both Israel and Hamas have committed war crimes during the Gaza conflict, according to an independent UN report. The investigation also indicates that Israel has committed crimes against humanity, citing the high number of civilian casualties in Gaza. Israel is accused of using starvation as a method of warfare, as well as committing murder, sexual violence, and torture during the conflict.
Systematic Attack on Civilians
The report notes that Israel carried out a "widespread and systematic attack directed against the civilian population in Gaza."
Israel has responded to the report by calling it "systematic anti-Israel discrimination."
Hamas' War Crimes
Hamas is also accused of several war crimes in connection with the October 7 attack, including kidnapping and torturing civilians, among them children.
Hamas' war crimes also include firing rockets at civilian targets in Israel. Hamas has not yet commented on the investigation.
Focus on the Start of the War
The UN report focuses on the beginning of the war, with conclusions drawn from two separate investigations: one into Hamas' terror attack on Israel on October 7, and the other into Israel's military response.
The report is expected to be presented to the UN Human Rights Council next week.
