A UN report has accused Israel of war crimes over its attacks on hospitals in the Gaza Strip, which have devastated the Palestinian enclave’s health system. The 23-page report, released by the UN Human Rights Office, concludes that Israeli actions since October 2023 have had severe consequences for Palestinians’ access to medical attention.
The report states that the destruction of the healthcare system and killing of patients, staff, and civilians are direct consequences of Israel’s disregard for international humanitarian and human rights law. It also warns that a systemic pattern of rights abuses could constitute crimes against humanity.
Israel has rejected these suggestions, claiming its military takes measures to mitigate civilian harm and minimize disruption. However, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights says the Israeli government’s actions have turned hospitals into “death traps”. The report comes amid criticism over Israel’s campaign against Hamas in Gaza, which has resulted in over 45,500 Palestinian deaths.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/un-body-issues-damning-report-israeli-attacks-gaza-hospitals-2024-12-31