The U.N. human rights office has issued a statement highlighting potential war crimes committed by both Israeli forces and Palestinian armed groups in the recent deadly raid that resulted in the freeing of four hostages. The raid, carried out by Israeli forces in the Nuseirat refugee camp, led to the deaths of at least 274 Palestinians, including women and children.
The office expressed particular concerns about the actions of Israeli forces, citing possible violations of rules of proportionality, distinction, and precaution. It emphasized the need for all parties to adhere to international humanitarian law to protect civilians caught in the crossfire.
In addition to condemning the actions of Israeli forces, the office also criticized Palestinian armed groups for holding hostages in densely populated areas, putting the lives of civilians at risk. The statement warned that such actions could amount to war crimes and called for the immediate release of all hostages.
The recent escalation in violence between Israel and Hamas was triggered by an attack by Hamas militants that resulted in the deaths of over 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and the abduction of around 250 individuals. Since the start of the conflict, more than 36,730 people have been killed in Gaza, according to the Health Ministry, with Palestinians facing severe shortages of essential supplies like food and medicine.
U.N. agencies have warned of a looming humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with over 1 million people at risk of experiencing extreme hunger by mid-July if the situation does not improve. The international community has been urged to take immediate action to address the dire humanitarian situation and prevent further loss of life.
