A U.N. commission has accused Israel of causing significant damage to Gaza's health care system through what it describes as 'relentless and deliberate attacks' during the yearlong conflict with Hamas. The commission, led by former U.N. human rights chief Navi Pillay, was tasked with investigating rights violations and abuses in Israel and the Palestinian territories under its control.
According to the report, Israeli forces have been accused of targeting hospitals in Gaza, alleging that militants were using them as shelters. Palestinian medical officials have refuted these claims, accusing Israel of endangering civilians and violating international law by targeting health care facilities.
The commission's findings include accusations of Israel deliberately killing, detaining, and torturing Palestinian medical staff, as well as restricting permits for medical evacuations from Gaza. These actions are deemed as war crimes and crimes against humanity.
The report highlights the impact on children, noting attacks on medical facilities providing care for pediatric and neonatal patients. It also details widespread abuse, violence, and sexual misconduct against detainees, including children, in Gaza.
Israel's National Security Minister has been implicated in institutionalizing harsh conditions in prisons, with allegations of sexual abuse and mistreatment of detainees. The report also condemns Palestinian armed groups for their treatment of hostages, calling for their immediate release.
The conflict has resulted in a significant loss of life, with over 42,000 Palestinians killed and large-scale destruction in Gaza. The International Court of Justice is investigating allegations of genocide, while the International Criminal Court is considering arrest warrants against Israeli and Hamas leaders.
Israel has denied the accusations, stating its compliance with international law. The situation remains complex and volatile, with ongoing efforts to address the humanitarian crisis and seek accountability for human rights violations.
For more updates on the Israel-Hamas conflict, visit AP's coverage.
