By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
A UN inquiry has accused Israel of committing genocide through its destruction of Gaza’s healthcare facilities and acts of gender-based violence.
The report, from the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry, claims that since October 2023, Israel has systematically targeted sexual and reproductive healthcare services in Gaza.
Chair of the commission, Navi Pillay, said, “There is no escape from the conclusion that Israel has employed sexual and gender-based violence against Palestinians to terrorize them and perpetuate a system of oppression.”
The report documents severe violations, including “forced public stripping, sexual harassment, threats of rape and sexual assault,” which are described as standard tactics used by Israeli security forces.
The inquiry also alleges that these acts, including sexual violence and violence against women’s reproductive health, were either carried out under direct orders or with the encouragement of Israeli leadership.
“Israeli authorities have destroyed in part the reproductive capacity of the Palestinians in Gaza,” the report states, calling these actions genocidal under international law.
Furthermore, the report reveals a significant increase in female fatalities in Gaza, particularly due to Israel’s bombing strategy, which targeted residential areas, including maternity wards. These acts are described as “the crime against humanity of murder” and “willful killing.”
The commission has called for accountability, with Pillay stressing, “The lack of action by Israel’s military justice system sends a clear message that members of the Israeli Security Forces can continue committing such acts without fear of accountability.”
The commission is collaborating with the International Criminal Court, aiming for prosecution of those responsible.
Despite Israel’s rejection of the report, calling it “unfounded,” the commission remains firm in its findings, and Chris Sidoti, a member of the commission, stated, “We don’t take Israel’s response seriously. It’s just chronic lying.”
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