UN claims Israel's consistent war law violations in Gaza strikes

The UN Human Rights Office released a report today documenting six significant attacks by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) in Gaza in 2023.

These attacks, using GBU-31, GBU-32, and GBU-39 bombs, targeted residential buildings, schools, refugee camps, and a market. The report verified 218 deaths from these incidents, with indications that the actual number could be higher.

High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk criticized Israel for what he termed as consistent violations of laws of war in its bombing campaign, highlighting concerns about civilian casualties and infrastructure destruction. The report suggests these actions may constitute crimes against humanity if part of a systematic attack on civilians.

Israel's use of explosive weapons in densely populated areas is noted to potentially violate international humanitarian law by failing to adequately distinguish between military targets and civilians. The report also criticizes Palestinian armed groups for indiscriminately firing projectiles towards Israel.

The report calls on Israel to conduct thorough, independent investigations into these incidents and to hold those responsible accountable, ensuring justice and reparations for victims.