A recent United Nations investigation has accused Israel of deliberately targeting and dismantling the healthcare system in Gaza during its conflict with Hamas, actions that the UN suggests amount to war crimes.
The UN’s Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, East Jerusalem, and Israel issued a report stating that Israel’s military actions against healthcare facilities and medical personnel in Gaza represent “war crimes” and “crimes against humanity.”
The report highlights that Israeli forces have allegedly attacked medical staff and vehicles, resulting in severe shortages of essential supplies such as fuel, food, water, and medicine in Gaza. It further accuses Israel of restricting permits for patients needing to leave Gaza for medical treatment.
The Israeli government has strongly rejected the accusations, with the Israeli foreign ministry labelling the claims as “outrageous.”
Israel defended its actions, stating that they were necessary for its national security and that its military operations targeted Hamas militants who, it said, were using medical facilities for terrorist activities.
Israel maintains that it adheres to international legal standards and that its right to protect its population is legitimate.
The UN report also criticised Hamas and other Palestinian militant groups, accusing them of war crimes, including the mistreatment of Israeli hostages. The report detailed “inhuman or cruel treatment” by Hamas, which has repeatedly denied using medical facilities for military purposes.
The full report will be presented to the UN General Assembly on October 30, continuing to raise concerns about the ongoing humanitarian impact of the conflict, especially on children and the health system in Gaza.