UN Report Highlights Severe Human Rights Violations Against Palestinians
A recent United Nations report reveals alarming human rights violations perpetrated against Palestinians, particularly in Gaza, where the humanitarian crisis has reached catastrophic levels.
Since the escalation of violence on October 7, 2023, approximately 39,445 Palestinians have been killed and over 91,073 injured due to Israeli military actions, marking one of the most devastating periods in the region’s history.
According to the report published on reliefweb.com, Israel’s military operations have led to widespread destruction of civilian infrastructure and homes, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation. Over 1.7 million people have been displaced within Gaza, with many forced into overcrowded shelters. The blockade imposed by Israel has severely restricted access to essential humanitarian aid, leading to widespread starvation. As of December 2023, over 90% of Gaza’s population faced acute food insecurity, with 40% at emergency levels.
The report also highlights the use of starvation as a weapon of war, describing how Israeli authorities have publicly supported policies that deprive civilians of food and water. The Secretary-General of the UN has condemned these actions as collective punishment, stating they amount to a man-made disaster.
In the West Bank, the situation is equally grim, with ongoing settlement expansion and violence against Palestinian communities. Since October 2023, at least 569 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli security forces, with reports of increased settler violence and arbitrary arrests.
The Special Committee urges the international community to take immediate action, including halting arms transfers to Israel and ensuring accountability for violations of international law. The report concludes that Israel’s actions constitute genocide and apartheid, calling for urgent humanitarian assistance to alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people.
